Don’t Do Anything, Just Stand There
What are the words we use when we are describing a “pause”?
When we are talking about establishing and/or defending boundaries, we might say “hold the line”.
When we are evaluating next steps or the aftermath of some event, we could say “survey the damage”.
When we are thinking about the timing of something, we say that we need to “let the dust settle”.
And, if we are in a place of waiting, it’s not unusual to say that we are just “treading water”.
In all those situations, the phrases we choose are symbolic of a pause, a temporary stop. No matter which phrase you use, the point is that, sometimes, the best thing you can do is just stand there. The best thing for determining what to do next might just very well be to let the dust settle and survey the damage!
During a personal review, a pause is meant to emphasize the importance of setting (and enforcing) a boundary around personal schedules, commitments, and responsibilities. That boundary could extend to our personal “stuff” as well, but that is really a different conversation for a different time.
The idea of a pause or spending time NOT doing anything feels foreign in our current culture, but not allowing ourselves to take a minute to stop and regroup can be detrimental. At some point, if you don’t pause intentionally, you may be forced to pause against your will. The reality of life is that our bodies and brains are not created to never stop, rest, and recharge. If you think you can run full-speed, every day with no plan to stop, you are bound to be disappointed when you realize that isn’t true.
The better option is to purposely choose a time to regroup. Stop your regular activities! Don’t agree to anything else that is going to require your time, energy, attention, or effort. Focus on what’s currently in play, nothing more and nothing less.
And while you’re stopped…
Breathe.
Observe.
Evaluate.
Maintain your current responsibilities and commitments, but while you are doing so, pay attention to how you are thinking and feeling. Decide what is working in your life and what is not. Become a student of yourself!
Then, use what you learn to make decisions about your next steps. Once you do, you’ll progress faster and more effectively!
