Today, I'm going to invite you to slow down with me, get a sip of your favorite beverage as you sit down to read this post. Sometimes, we just need to take a break in this busy world of "Always On" to take a pause so we can refresh, reflect, and take stock of our lives.
I don't know about you, but I've discovered there's a certain kind of magic that happens when I take a moment in any day to well, just, reflect - do absolutely nothing apart from sip on my favorite beverage of the day, a peace comes over me and it's in that peace that I start to get a handle on all the busyness of my life and gain perspective. Now it takes me about 15 minutes (with the phone hidden in another room, of course) before I start to get into real reflection mode, something that if I don't do on purpose is only saved for vacations!
You may ask yourself why it is important to reflect. Well, that’s when we can get clarity and perspective on our lives about the things that really matter to us, which is sometimes hard to find when we’re always on the go. It’s a way to reconnect with what really matters, not just tasks and your job/career, but in connecting to your inner joy, values, and purpose.
Taking pause is a direct link to many of the midlife challenges we face. The challenges of stress, caregiving, transitions, and feeling stuck.
Why do we reflect
It’s in moments of reflection that we get insights about our energy, our relationships or desires not yet met. We develop gratitude the more often we practice reflection, even if it’s in small ways. Also, we get a certain level of empowerment that comes from noticing life’s nuances rather than ignoring them.
You Deserve This Pause
Reflection is a kind act to yourself; it’s not selfish, it’s simply self-care. Self-care is a wonderful way to reward yourself, and pausing for reflection doesn’t cost you anything but can give you some big rewards, such as self-growth, confidence, and a peace that is all your own.
Simple Ways to Create Space for Reflection
- Carve out 5-15 minutes daily for quiet time.
- Journaling or writing yourself gentle letters.
- Practicing Breathwork, a favorite of mine because it can be done anywhere.
- Meditation, find a quiet spot, close your eyes if possible, and if thoughts come into your mind, let go of as many as possible.
- Be intentional, not perfect. This takes time.
What Will You Do?
Now that you have a better idea of why taking a moment of pause and self-reflection is so important, let me encourage you to:
- Take 5-15 minutes daily for quiet time.
- Ask yourself, “What’s going well in my life right now?”
- Reflect on “Where do I feel stuck, and what’s one small step forward?
- Every time you reflect, ask yourself, “What am I grateful for today”.
Thank you for reading.
