Have you ever just wanted to pack up and run away? To jump in the car and never look back? We've all felt that urge, especially when life gets overwhelming. We might take a vacation, hoping it'll fix everything, only to find the stress creeps back the moment we return. Many of us are stressed not because we've chosen too much, but because we never set anything down. It's like holding a 15-lb dumbbell for an entire day versus curling a 30-lb one—the constant strain is exhausting!

In this episode, Thriving Man's very own Reese Maxwell will teach you the art of taking a "vacation every day" and how to start creating blank space in your life right now. We're passionate about empowering you to conquer your everyday chaos and build a thriving life!

We've lost the crucial art of disengaging. Our minds are filled with constant mental background noise, and we often numb out with our phones or simply want to quit. But disengaging isn't about giving up; it's the art of letting go—a mini, mental vacation. We get so consumed by chores, projects, and obligations that we never truly observe our lives; we just survive them.

Imagine a professor who lectures non-stop versus one who allows time to process the content. That's the power of blank space in your mind and life. Don't wait until the holidays to experience a moment of disengagement. Rest mentally by being fully present, not wishing you were anywhere else. We often regret not slowing down or taking more time—let's change that!

1. Start Small: Creating blank space in your life doesn't happen by accident. Begin with small, intentional steps. Try going to the bathroom without your phone, or decide to leave your phone behind for an activity to be truly present. Schedule dedicated "chill time" on your calendar. Set a timer and allow yourself to simply let go for that period. It's like getting reps in at the gym; the more you practice, the easier it becomes. The goal isn't perfect meditation, but rather to let your brain simply "brain" in these moments. Blank space provides crucial mental and time margin, just like leaving enough distance between cars on the road. It helps your brain process and prepare for what's next.

2. Pick Some Classics: These aren't necessarily about formal meditation, but about letting go and enjoying satisfying activities or connection time. There are timeless activities that humans have always benefited from, and you can incorporate them as blank space in your life:

• Walking/Hiking: Get out into nature and clear your head.
• Chilling with your family: Unplug and connect with loved ones.
• Dinner party with friends: Enjoy good company and conversation.
• Slow Hobbies (Play): Ever wonder why people love Dungeons & Dragons or painting miniatures? It's about the joy of play and creating something.

Disengaging is a skill, and it takes practice to master the art of letting go. But the effort is absolutely worth it—it will change you for the better. We challenge you to:

• Take the no-phone bathroom challenge!
• Take one mental vacation a day! Start with 15 minutes, 30, or even an hour if you can.
• Recognize and appreciate it if you're already doing it! It's good to acknowledge when you're giving yourself a much-needed break.

Are you ready to start finding peace without running...