The Pause That Changes Everything

Take a moment to think about your higher self whatever that means for you. Focus. Now let that contemplation expand for a few more moments. Take a picture of what your higher self means to you in your head or better yet, write it down.

Today, practice the discipline of mindful speech, the art of pausing before you speak. Words can soothe or sting, uplift or unravel, words carry immense power. Now think of a word or a phrase that will trigger this focus. Make some sticky notes and put them in places where you will see them throughout the day. Put it on your phone background so you will see them every time you open your phone. If you are spending your day with others, maybe ask them to participate.

Throughout the day, become aware of the moments when you feel the impulse to speak quickly, defend yourself, or fill the silence. Instead of reacting, take a breath and listen first to others, to the moment, to your own emotions. Notice how much is communicated in silence and how often your words are driven by habit rather than intention.

This practice is about alignment. Each pause gives you space to choose language that reflects your highest self, whatever that means to you.

At the end of the day, reflect on one moment when your pause changed the outcome of a conversation. How did it feel to hold your words and wait for clarity? You may find that peace often begins in the quiet before you speak.

Listen to understand, speak to connect.