Pause For the Cause

This morning, I had a moment to focus on a song that I had not heard before.? If you have read some of my previous Thursday Thoughts, you know how music can elevate one’s mood.? But this time, it wasn't about enhancing my mood.? It was about entering a realm of pure focus and contemplation.? I spent part of my morning in this moment, undistracted by work, family, or any obligations.? Just me and John Mayer. It was a refreshing pause at the start of my day, a moment where I allowed myself to unplug and simply be. Surprisingly, this brief interlude of relaxation equipped me to tackle the day's challenges with newfound vigor (one of my prior managers loves this word).? Everything seemed manageable, and each task fell into place as if orchestrated.? It caused me to ponder this thought: Could a simple pause in your busy day be the secret to unlocking your potential?

Many of us are caught up in the whirlwind of our busy schedules, juggling work commitments and home responsibilities. ?We strive to make every moment count, yet in doing so, we often forget to truly experience those moments. ?When we plan the next task while still engaged in the current one, we fail to be present. ?This continuous distraction hampers our effectiveness.

A mentor once asked me if I considered myself a 'human being' or a 'human doing.' ?This question resonated with me deeply. We might excel at accomplishing tasks, but when we are emotionally and physically drained, our productivity suffers. ?Our brains need regular breaks, or strategic pauses, throughout the day to function optimally.

Juliet Funt, the author of ‘A Minute to Think,’ emphasizes that pausing is essential to counter the overwhelming busyness of modern life. ?These breaks provide the "oxygen" we need to thrive. ?By incorporating these moments of pause into our daily routine, we can regain control over our time, reduce stress, and foster innovation.

So, the next time you find yourself distracted and overwhelmed despite meticulous planning, remember that inefficiency might not be the issue. Instead, you may need a reset. Take it from John Mayer and me.? Pause for the cause!