Have You Thought About This?

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​​This morning I am at The University Club in St. Paul, Minnesota. One of the many things I love about The University Club is the fire in the fireplace every weekday morning during the winter.

This morning the snow is covering the brown, leafless vines that crisscross the windows. It’s particularly quiet today due to the slippery roads and winter storm that has made its presence known for the past 12 hours.

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​At the top of my to-do list!
I find myself in a contemplative mood—just me and the fire during these quiet moments of sitting still. I’m warm and cozy, sipping my morning coffee. Yes, I have a to-do list, but for these few quiet minutes, reflection time has made its way to the top of my list.  My dear colleague, Kevin Cashman, calls it “stepping back to lead forward” and describes the idea more fully in his book, The Pause Principle.

Click here to order book on Amazon

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Why is it that pausing and reflecting is so hard to do? What makes sitting and being present to what’s going on inside of us—and listening from within—something that we have to be deliberate about doing? I think for most of us, it gets sideswiped by the crazy busy things we think we have to do. 

The world disappears
Quieting my mind and letting go of the ceaseless chatter that usually happens behind the scenes is so relaxing, so refreshing, so calming. The outside world with all its deadlines and demands disappears for these precious moments of peace and tranquility.

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I notice the snowflakes gently falling to the ground. I have an appreciation that is inspiring, rejuvenating, genuine and delightful. It feels as though I touched a place of wisdom that is a welcomed guide—a refreshing step away from the noise, big data, drama and electronic invasions.

Is this wisdom?
From this place of quiet, reflection and pause, I can evaluate, discern and apply what I know. This feeling of wisdom brings me deep confidence in my ability to influence and make a difference with the people and issues that matter to me.
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There’s clarity and steady power in
​taking the time to pause and reflect. 

It doesn’t take long. You’ll be surprised at what 10-15 minutes will do for you.

Imagine what could be possible if more leaders took this kind of time-out. Imagine what could be possible if YOU pause, get quiet and reflect.
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Give it a try. Then let me know what you discover!