The next writing prompt in “God Is My Happy Place” is

“Do you need to create more margin in your life? How can you do that?”

I had to look up the definition of the word “margin” to really figure out what this prompt was asking.

definintions of margin from dictionary.com:

The space around the printed or written matter on a page
An amount allowed or available beyond what is actually necessary. To allow a margin for error.
A border or edge.

So this prompt could be asking me a couple of things. Do I need to add more boundaries to my life? Do I need to give myself more margin for error (Grace)? The answer is yes to both. I think what I need to work on is a boundary and grace all in one.

I believe that I need to give myself time to think, when asked to do something, because I put a lot of pressure on myself to have immediate answers. I often put more pressure on myself than the person asking does.

I can ask for time to think about it and get back with that person. In doing this, I am given time to pray about it, talk with my husband about it, consult my schedule. I feel less pressure to make a choice just because someone wants me to. And most people are understanding, when I ask for time to think about it.

I also need to give myself permission to say no & realize that it’s ok if I don’t do all the events or take on all the obligations. And give myself permission to not feel the immense guilt I tend to feel for saying no.

Ultimately, it would bring down the anxiety I feel and help me make the best use of my time.