There is power in pausing

I used to think that I could only move forward if I was taking action.

And there have been many times when I’ve hit burnout because I’ve been busy trying to take action.

What would have served me better is pausing.

Taking a step back so that I could see the wood from the trees.

Giving myself some space and time to decide my next course of action instead of just trying to do stuff.

I’m all for taking action, however, if you’re travelling in the wrong direction you’re not actually making any progress.

Although pausing may feel like a waste of time, it could be the one action you take that will save you time.

So when you’re feeling overwhelmed, having difficulty navigating your current situation or unsure of what to do next, I encourage you to pause. This simple action will give you the space you need so that you can restart with clarity and certainty.

Reflect on what you’ve achieved

‘This too will pass’ is a great saying to remember when life feels challenging. In those moments, I encourage you to reflect on where you’ve come from. Acknowledge all that you have achieved and all the obstacles that you have overcome.

This moment is temporary and you are more capable than you realise. Therefore, give yourself the space to know that anything is possible and you have the ability to deal with whatever life sends your way.

Reflect on where you want to go

Sometimes the path we end up following is not the one we want to be on. That’s why it is important to check in once and a while to reconfirm whether this path is still right for you.

It may not be easy to change the direction in which you’re travelling and in the short term it may feel more difficult. However, being on the right path will ultimately make life feel easier.

Recharge your batteries

When we’re busy being productive and in ‘doing’ mode, it can be exhausting. That’s why it is important to take the time to recharge your batteries. Trying to run on empty will only get you so far before your body forces you to stop.

When you’re feeling like life is hard and you’re too tired to deal with it, that’s your cue to be kind to yourself and refill your energy sources.

It’s not about going to a fancy spa or spending lots of money. It’s about finding the simple things in life that allow you to feel energised and give you the space to recharge.

Distraction can give you better focus

When you’re in deep, the best way to deal with life is to distract yourself for a while. Some time away doing something completely different might be all you need to be able to view the present situation with a fresh pair of eyes.

Find the one thing that can easily distract you, listening to music is a good one, so that when the need arises you know what to do.

Reaffirm what’s important

When life starts to feel chaotic and out of control, reminding yourself of what is important in life, especially the individuals you have in your life that you’re grateful for, can help to give you the focus you need.?

This helps to put things into perspective and refocus your attention on what will serve you.?

Pausing is not about sitting back and doing nothing. Pausing is about taking a step back temporarily so that you can make the best decision for yourself. It’s your opportunity to be an observer of what is going on and detach yourself from the emotions of the situation. This perspective allows you the benefit of seeing what is going on with clarity. It is from this position that you’ll see the opportunities you may have missed and that are better for you. Pausing is what will help you progress forward.

Is it time you paused?

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You might also like to read, Balancing Act: 10 Ways to Regain Stability and Escape the Tightrope of Life

To find out how I can help, click the LINK and book a complimentary 30 minute discovery call.