Stuck on PAUSE: When Do You Move Forward?

Life has a way of nudging us to keep moving, but there are times when pausing is essential. The importance of taking a moment to slow down cannot be overstated; it’s about ensuring that when we do move forward, we do so without regret. This pause allows us to acknowledge, accept, and absorb what is happening around us. It’s not just about mental clarity but also about our physical well-being. Slowing down can significantly reduce the stress response, known as the fight-or-flight reaction, benefiting our internal organs and overall health.

However, there’s a fine line between taking a pause and getting stuck on pause. When we pause for too long, it can have adverse effects. Our organs, like our lives, need a balance of activity and rest. Prolonged inactivity can cause everything to come to a halt, leading to a backlog of tasks and an overwhelming sense of reality when we finally do face it. This can trigger the very fight-or-flight response we were trying to avoid.

So, how do we find the balance? How do we know if we are stuck on pause, and how can we figure it out? The best advice is to take things day by day. Each new day offers a fresh start and an opportunity to practice a slow and steady approach. It’s not about going from 0 to 100 but rather from 0 to 5, then to 10, and so on. Life is full of setbacks, and coping with grief is one of the biggest challenges we face. It’s okay to take a pause, but we must ensure that pause doesn’t turn into stagnation.

As a certified end-of-life coach, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of this balance. The key is to view the pause metaphorically rather than literally. This approach will benefit your state of mind, leading to a more stable state of being, which in turn positively affects your overall existence and reality. Taking things day by day with an “ease on down” mentality allows for a manageable progression through life’s challenges.

When you feel stuck, ask yourself: Am I giving myself the grace of a pause, or am I avoiding reality? Reflect on your day-to-day activities and gradually increase your engagement with the world around you. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection.

In summary, taking a moment to pause is crucial for both our mental and physical health. But, we must be mindful not to get stuck on pause. By moving forward slowly and steadily, we can navigate life’s setbacks, including grief, more effectively. Day by day, we can find a balance that ensures our well-being without overwhelming ourselves. So, take that moment, but also remember to keep moving forward, one step at a time.

Disclosure: I am not a medical doctor. However, I am a certified end-of-life coach that teaches living your legacy. Read more: