We can all recall that moment when our basic freedoms were removed and we were forced to stay home. In Barcelona we experienced one of the strictest lockdowns. As someone who does not fair well with “sitting on their arse” it was a largely uncomfortable period for yours truly.
That being said, being constrained in a moment by external factors, unable to distract yourself with the usual day’s activities does had it’s upsides. It forced us all to pause and allowed us to reflect — on a lot of things. Take the “Great Resignation” as an example of what a pause to our usual routines can cause.
When we pause, it gives us time with ourselves and helps us to formulate our thoughts and process our emotions without reacting in subconscious ways.
Pauses help us to be more deliberate.
Last week I took a pause from writing. It wasn’t planned, but it was needed. When I am having conversations with folks, I am trying to pause more to ensure that I am actively listening instead of filling air time. When experiencing emotions, I pause to take a breath.
Each pause is an opportunity to look within, to reflect. It allows you to be more thoughtful in your next steps.
Here are some pauses that you can try out:
Micro-pauses
Take a breath before responding
When feeling emotional, take a deep breath
Before doing something, ask why this matters to you
Meso-pauses
Walking your dog
Taking a proper lunch break
Journaling your thoughts using pen and paper
Macro-pauses
Going on vacation (summer is just around the corner)
Taking a sabbatical from work
Dedicating significant time to your hobbies and interests
When was the last time you took a pause?
Powering this weeks thoughts
Music plays such an important role when I am thinking, working, and reflecting. I also find it interesting to see what others are listening to. It's a gateway into an aspect of their personality. That's why I'd like to share, with each article, an artist or playlist that I have been listening to that week. Here's this weeks: