ABSTRACT
Making a Space is a combined cognitive and visualization exercise that helps creatives delay and change their habitual responses to negative comments about their work. Imagine that coaches are creating a space between the other person’s words and their reaction. The space could be a lake, a canyon, or even the room they are in. Visualize the space slowly widening, increasing the separation between coaches and the trigger. When the encounter is over, coaches may feel some lingering physical tension or a residual emotional sting. Decompress by releasing, analyzing, and celebrating. Making a Space works best if coaches practice it regularly, either by imagining someone’s hurtful words, role-playing with a friend, or using the exercise when they encounter milder triggers. Clients can employ the technique in other emotionally charged situations: the opening night of an art exhibition, when pitching a story idea, or when trying to resolve differences with bandmates.
