This post is elegant and timely, John.

Ever since you invited me to see Tony Schwarz at Configurations, I've been pondering the need to build margin into all areas of life. As I've pursued it, I came upon an illuminating (but irritating) realization: Just because I have ability in an area I enjoy, doesn't mean the project in question truly NEEDS to be done. As a finite resource, I have a responsibility to be a steward of my time, rather than just a manager of it.

I think the most difficult part of being empathetic leader is learning to decline requests that matter deeply to those you care for, but aren't realistically possible for you to take on. Without the ability to respectfully decline, I'll never build margin.  But I agree with you that margin is mandatory and without it, we wither. So off we go, to find a way!

Tristan