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Most people see stopping as a bad thing. It’s a failure, a mistake, it’s quitting. In general, it’s something that just did not work.
But I see that it takes a lot of courage to stop something. You have to let go of something that you’ve put a ton of energy and time and investment into.
There’s a lot of power in doing that because once you stop that thing… it frees up your time and energy and resources for new possibilities, new directions, new choices.
And so, stopping is actually something that creates opportunity.
I’ve been talking about Big Stops. However, there’s small stops too. And there’s lots of benefit to these as well.
"Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”
Here’s why you’d want to have small stops as well:
1. Rest and Recovery
Just like our bodies need rest after physical exertion, our minds need breaks too. Stopping allows us to recharge, rejuvenate, and come back with renewed energy and focus.
2. Reflection and Evaluation
Pausing gives us the opportunity to reflect on our progress, assess our goals, and evaluate whether we’re heading in the right direction. It’s a chance to course-correct if necessary.
3. Preventing Burnout
Continuous work without breaks can lead to burnout, diminishing productivity and overall well-being.
Stopping periodically helps prevent burnout by giving us time to relax and engage in activities that bring us joy and fulfillment.
4. Enhanced Creativity
Stepping away from a task or project can stimulate creativity. Our minds continue to work on problems in the background, and often, solutions or fresh ideas emerge when we least expect them.
5. Maintaining Balance
Constantly pushing ourselves without breaks can lead to an imbalance in our lives. Stopping allows us to allocate time to other important aspects such as relationships, hobbies, and self-care.
6. Improved Decision Making
Taking a pause before making decisions can prevent impulsive choices. It allows us to weigh options, consider consequences, and make more informed and thoughtful decisions.
7. Building Resilience
Learning to stop and take breaks when needed builds resilience. It teaches us to listen to our bodies and minds, recognizing when we need to slow down and take care of ourselves.
Stopping isn’t a sign of weakness.
Stopping is a strategic move that supports our well-being, productivity, and long-term success.
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”
– Anne Lamott
American novelist and non-fiction writer
