Mind The Gap

The London Underground loudspeakers cry, "Mind the Gap." It's a warning, but it could also be one of the best pieces of advice you'll ever receive. The Gap—whether physical or in time—is where decisions are made about the actions we take.

You know that split second when someone says something that upsets you, makes you feel threatened, or even questions your view of yourself? That moment when you decide to rise in righteous anger (burn the world down) or let it pass and move on? That is one form of "The Gap."

Being aware of "The Gap" gives you a brief but powerful opportunity to make a better decision. Extending the moment between stimulus and response is a valuable skill in these situations. It allows you to pause, consider, and choose a response that serves you better.

However, there are times when you want to shorten "The Gap." These are moments where a bias toward action is the best way to get things done. Take the example of deciding to go to the gym—the best time to go is as soon as you've made the decision. Extending "The Gap" in this scenario makes it more likely that you'll talk yourself out of it.

So, which one is it then—extend the gap or shorten the gap?

It's the awareness of "The Gap" that matters. Knowing when taking a moment will likely result in a better outcome, and when shortening the gap and having a bias toward action will help you get something done.

The big danger in lengthening the gap is overthinking and doubt. This is especially true when taking on a new project, changing careers, or making a big life decision. The longer the gap, the more reasons you'll find not to do something.

And for those of us who worry that it might be too faarking late to start that project, make that career change, or get in shape—understanding how to shorten the space between idea and action can be the tool that makes all the difference.

Because it’s NOT TOO FAARKING LATE.