I’ve become a fan of THE PAUSE!
The world tells us to move faster, do more, and keep going no matter what. But speed without pausing is a straight road to burnout. If you want clarity, energy, and fresh ideas, you have to give yourself permission to stop. Not for days, not even for hours, sometimes all it takes is a few intentional minutes to reset your mind and refill your cup.
Keep Your Cup Filled to Overflowing
I used to think productivity meant constant motion, writing faster, scheduling tighter, staying busy so I could “get ahead.” But the more I pushed, the more my creativity seemed to dry up. Ideas that once came easily now felt forced.
Somewhere along the way, I realized the problem wasn’t that I needed to work harder. The problem was that my cup was running empty.
Here’s what I learned that changed everything:
Keep your cup filled to overflowing, and only give from the overflow.
When your cup is full, when you’ve rested, recharged, and created space in your mind, ideas spill out naturally. You’re not scraping the bottom, trying to find something to give. You’re offering from abundance.
The Science of the Pause
Neuroscientists call it the “default mode network” the part of your brain that lights up when you’re at rest. It’s why great ideas often arrive in the shower, on a walk, or while folding laundry. When you give your mind a break from actively focusing, it starts making unexpected connections.
In other words, rest isn’t wasted time. It’s part of the creative process.
Simple Ways to Keep Your Cup Full
If you’re feeling drained, try one or two of these small “pause practices”:
The Ten-Minute Disconnect – Put your phone away, make a cup of tea, and let your mind wander.
Quiet Journaling – Spend five minutes writing whatever comes to mind. No rules, no goals.
Move Your Body – Take a walk, stretch, or dance in your kitchen. Movement stirs energy.
The Joy List – Each night, jot down three little things that made you smile.
Screen-Free Evenings – Give your brain time to unwind before bed.
Take a Nap – Even a short rest can reset your mind.
Overflow Is the Goal
Slowing down isn’t about doing less forever. It’s about creating rhythms that keep you from running on fumes. When your cup is overflowing, your creativity isn’t something you have to force. It outpours naturally.
Life will always find ways to keep you moving. But you get to decide when to step out of the chaos, take a deep breath, and let the water settle.
Those intentional pauses are where clarity returns, creativity blooms, and your energy begins to overflow again. So slow down, not because you’re giving up, but because you’re making room for your best work, your best ideas, and your best self to show up.
☕ Your Turn: What’s one way you’re going to pause this week? Hit reply or share in the comments. I’d love to cheer you on.
I will turn off all electronics after lunch and make Psalm 46:1 personalized. “God is my refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” I need to hear Him above the noise.
Your words are a gentle invitation to breathe again. Pausing restores purpose. Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” Stillness births clarity, creativity, and communion. Thank you.