Why Pausing and Reflecting Saves More Time Than Pushing Forward

Here’s the thing: when you’re just powering ahead without pausing to reflect, you’re not really solving problems—you’re just adding more chaos. I’ve learned that sometimes, the fastest way to move forward is to hit pause, take a breath, and realign. It’s a counterintuitive move, but trust me, it works.

The True Cost of "Just Keep Going"

I’ll share a story. I was working with a company automating their reporting. Midway through, we hit resistance from a key employee who was hesitant about the changes. It wasn’t because she was against progress; she was worried the automation would make her role irrelevant. That’s when we hit pause. We had a conversation, and I explained that the changes would actually allow her to take on more strategic work—stuff we couldn’t get to because everyone was too buried in mundane tasks. Once she understood the bigger picture, she didn’t just get on board; she became a driving force for the project. That’s the power of hitting pause.

Why Pausing Works

• Clarity Over Chaos: Here’s the thing: if your goal isn’t clear, your progress won’t be either. Pausing gives you the chance to ask, “What will success actually look like when we get there?” It’s a simple question, but it forces you to realign on the vision. Without that clarity, you’re just spinning your wheels.
• Find the Real Issues: When you’re in the thick of change, resistance usually signals a deeper concern. Maybe it’s fear of being left behind, maybe it’s confusion about what the change means. By taking a step back, you’re not just treating the symptoms—you’re addressing the root cause.
• Reignite the Team’s Energy: Pausing doesn’t kill momentum; it redirects it. It shows the team you’re committed to getting this right, and that their input matters. When people feel heard, they don’t just follow the change—they drive it.

How to Hit Pause the Right Way

1. Be Transparent About the Why Don’t just pull the brakes without explaining. Let the team know you’re hitting pause to make sure you’re all aligned. It’s about being smart, not slowing down.
2. Revisit the Vision Ask yourself and the team, “What’s the endgame here?” If the goalposts have moved, make sure everyone understands the new target. It’s not about changing the plan; it’s about making sure the plan still makes sense.
3. Reenergize and Realign Once you’ve cleared up the confusion, bring everyone back together, and make sure they understand the updated direction. Then hit the ground running again—this time, with a renewed sense of purpose.

Final Thoughts

Pausing isn’t about losing momentum—it’s about finding it. The next time you’re knee-deep in a project that’s drifting off course, don’t just double down and hope for the best. Take a step back, reflect, and reset. It’s not about doing more; it’s about doing it right.