How to Find Your Unicorn Space—Even If You Think You Don’t Have Time

Real-Life Strategies for Making Room for Joy in a Too-Busy World

‘I’d love to, but I just don’t have time.’ If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. For many, the biggest barrier to creative fulfillment is the belief that our schedules are too packed for anything extra. But Eve Rodsky’s 'Find Your Unicorn Space' turns this myth on its head, showing that time for creativity isn’t found—it’s made, often in the smallest pockets of the day.

Rodsky’s research and interviews reveal that even the busiest people can find moments for self-expression. The key? Micro-moments. Instead of waiting for a free afternoon, look for slivers of time: five minutes in the morning, ten minutes before bed, a quiet lunch break. One mother wrote an entire novel in 15-minute increments while her baby napped. Another reader learned to play guitar by practicing one song a day before work.

Rituals are another secret weapon. Lighting a candle, playing a favorite playlist, or setting a timer before you begin signals to your brain that it’s time to create. Over time, these rituals become habits, making creative time a non-negotiable part of your day. Rodsky also provides practical scripts for communicating your needs: 'I need 20 minutes to myself each day to recharge,' or 'Let’s trade off bedtime duties so we both get creative time.' These conversations aren’t always easy, but they’re essential for building a supportive environment.

The book also addresses the cultural scripts that tell women, in particular, that self-care is selfish. Rodsky argues that prioritizing your own joy makes you a better parent, partner, and colleague. The ripple effects are real: families become more harmonious, workplaces more creative, and communities more resilient when individuals make time for what lights them up.

Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Start today—set a timer, pick up a pen, and give yourself permission to play. Your Unicorn Space is closer than you think.
Citations: 1 2 3