Mind the gap. It’s a phrase commonly used to warn train passengers of the gap between the station platform and the train door.
But it’s also a metaphor that applies to many areas of our lives. The gap is the space between one activity and the next.
Not being mindful of the gap between a moving train and a concrete subway platform can cost you an arm or a leg. But ignoring other gaps can also be costly.
For example, if you have to leave the house at 8 a.m., it’s probably going to take you five minutes to walk downstairs, get your briefcase, pour yourself a go-cup of coffee and get into your car.
If you don’t allow for that 5-minute gap, you’ll still be brushing teeth at 7:59. Then as you rush out the door at 8:05 with toothpaste crusted around your mouth, spilling coffee in your wake, you’ll find yourself wondering why you’re late.