In a world, which often glorifies busyness and productivity, taking a pause from time to time can feel like a luxury we can't afford. We can be conditioned to believe constant activity is the key to success. However, there is immense power in stepping away from our work, whether for a short break or a longer period.
Taking time to be in nature, spending moments with loved ones, laughing, dancing, exploring new places, or simply sitting in reflection can have a profound impact on our well-being and productivity.
Over the past couple of months, we – at Empower World - have made a conscious decision to pause and take time away from our work. The benefits have been immense. Here are a few reflections we would like to offer because of the pause we’ve consciously chosen to take
The Necessity of a Pause
Taking a pause, no matter how brief, is essential for our mental, emotional and physical health. In this fast-paced life, we can often push ourselves to do more, which can lead to burnout, stress, diminished creativity and potential health threats.
A pause for us has acted as a reset button, allowing us to reflect, rest, recharge and return to our work with renewed energy, new perspectives and new ideas to support our present and future well-being
Reconnecting with Nature
Spending time in nature is one of the most effective ways to rejuvenate our minds and bodies and bring a sense of calm and awareness of the things that matter most. The serenity of natural surroundings, fresh air, and the absence of artificial/digital noise create a space where we can relax and breathe deeply.
Nature has a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety, increasing good feelings, and naturally creating chemicals in the body eg oxytocin, which enhances our mood.
Just walking in a forest, sitting by a river, swimming in the sea or simply being outside under the open sky feeling the grass on the soles of our feet can support us to reconnect with ourselves, and the amazing world around us.
Thankfully, during our pause, we’ve been able to connect with beautiful nature and explore new countries very different from our own with our loved ones, which has opened up our hearts and sense of wonder and appreciation.
Strengthening Bonds with Loved Ones
Quality time with loved ones is a powerful form of pause. Engaging in meaningful conversations, sharing laughter, and creating memories with those we care about reminds us of what truly matters.
These moments of connection foster a sense of belonging and support, which are crucial for our mental health. Moreover, they allow us to step outside of our work-focused mindset – which can potentially ‘blind’ us to what we truly do appreciate and what adds richness and meaning to our personal (and professional) lives.
Time out with our loved ones this summer (in the northern hemisphere) has been truly rich and joyful.
The Joy of Fun and Laughter
Laughter is a natural stress reliever and making time for fun can have a transformative effect on our outlook. Whether it's dancing, playing a game, or simply laughing together, engaging in activities that bring us joy allows us to release tension and reset our emotional state. Fun moments break the monotony of routine, giving us a fresh perspective reminding us not to take life too seriously and bringing lightness to who we are and what we do.
Exploration and Discovery
Visiting new places or trying new activities is a form of pause, which stimulates our minds and broadens our horizons. Exploration pushes us out of our comfort zones and into the unknown, which can be truly energising, where we can discover new passions, meet new people, and learn new things.
These experiences enrich our lives and often lead to creative breakthroughs when we return to our routines.
Riding horses, walking along incredible majestic fjords, trying new beautiful cuisine, exploring museums and art galleries, learning new dances, and so much more, have provided much enrichment.
Peace of Solitude
Sometimes, the most rejuvenating pause is a quiet one spent in solitude. Sitting down with a good book, journaling, or simply reflecting allows us to process our thoughts and emotions. These moments of introspection help us gain clarity on our goals, values, and the challenges we face.
Solitude gives us the mental space to think deeply and creatively, leading to better decision-making and problem-solving when we re-engage with the world.
The Impact of Taking a Pause
Taking a pause, whether for a few minutes or several weeks, has profound benefits. It rejuvenates our bodies, refreshes our minds, and nurtures our spirits. When we step away from our routines, we give ourselves the opportunity to see things from a different angle.
This distance we create between what is routine and a new way of being – slowing down or doing something differently - allows us to gain more clarity and perspectives, often leading to new insights and ways forward that we couldn't see before.
And importantly, pauses help us to process our experiences and emotions. In the constant rush of daily life, we often don't have time to reflect on what we've been through or how we feel. A pause creates the space for this reflection, or ability to notice perhaps what our bodies are trying to ‘tell us’ and enable us to process our emotions and experiences in a healthy way.
Taking a pause can significantly improve our productivity and creativity.
After our wonderful breaks away from our work, we are returning to it with a clearer mind, a lighter heart, and a renewed sense of purpose. We are better equipped to tackle challenges and opportunities, make new decisions and choices, and think creatively.
We are so grateful for our pause.
Be empowered.
Jeanine and Marie Empower World Co-founders
The Empower World's world-class ICF Approved Professional Coach Training and Leadership Programme's next intake starts on 11 Oct 2024 in Doha, Qatar. You can find out more here.
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