Have you ever noticed those times when you want to step off the day-to-day merry-go-round, for just a little while, because it’s impossible to figure anything out when you’re swirling around?

I have. I’ve also noticed how I feel when those times hit. I’m in overwhelm. Which is why more and more I place a lot of value in the power of a pause.

What’s the most common reason we know we need to pause? There’s something in our life that isn’t working. A decision we’re avoiding. A big transition we’re going through.

Here’s what I know about pausing:

Almost always you have to intentionally create a space to pause because it’s not going to magically appear.

Most of us are moving through daily life at a pretty fast pace and we’re masters at avoidance. We don’t want to face the thing that needs to be sorted out.

The most often used excuse is “I don’t have time”. We do have time. 

We’re human. It’s easier to continue doing what we’ve been doing. Even when we know a change needs to happen.

That last one – even when we know a change needs to happen – that’s really it, isn’t it? Change most often means work. Stepping from the known to the unknown. Most of us would rather stay right where we are. It’s a lot easier.

I believe in the power of a pause so much that I created a way to work with moms who are preparing for and transitioning into empty nesting and it starts right there. The pause. It’s the only way I’ve found, for myself and others, to be still long enough to really listen to everything you need to know about yourself to move forward through such a big transition. Yes it’s uncomfortable but worth doing in spite of the discomfort. A pause doesn’t have to be a long period of time, although that’s been very effective for me. 

Here are some suggestions for creating a pause:

Block a chunk of time off in your calendar. Start with a manageable amount of time. Maybe it’s an hour, an afternoon, a weekend. Experiment. You can always create space for more.

Step away from your everyday environment and distractions. Maybe it’s a coffee shop. Maybe it’s being in nature. A walk or a hike.

Grab a journal or notebook, someplace to jot down thoughts as they come to you. Seeing those thoughts in writing is a useful tool.

The last thing I’ll leave you with today – when you’re ready to create that intentional space, it can be really helpful to invest in working with someone who is great at asking questions and opening the space with you to listen for your answers. A guide who can walk with you through the process of pausing, reflecting and then moving forward. I love this work! To find out more about how I offer that support, click here.

xx Jean