This post is the beginning of a 6-part series titled The Creative Pause, reflections on how intentionally slowing down can shape how we live, lead, create, and connect.
In a world obsessed with speed, slowing down often feels like failure or falling behind. But over time, I’ve come to realize that the most meaningful ideas, the ones that stick, rarely come when I’m racing. They emerge when I pause and take a moment to “calm down.
Initially, I thought pausing was solely about enhancing creativity and problem-solving. But now I know: pausing can also save friendships, protect your peace, and even shape your future.
Beyond Creativity: The Pause in Emotion
A few years ago, I was working on a major project with a partner for over three years. Suddenly, my partner let me down in a major way. It felt personal and was incredibly painful. I was furious and ready to burn every bridge, leaving nothing but scorched earth in my wake.
I held my phone in my hand, ready to respond. My wife noticed this, calmly took the phone from me, and said, “Please. Just pause. Don’t do anything.” She made me promise not to call or text him, not just yet.
So, I paused. That simple act changed everything.
When I finally spoke to my partner, the conversation was different, and so was the outcome. Today, we are still friends and have even collaborated on several projects together (with caution, of course). But that single pause saved me from acting out of pain. And it taught me a valuable lesson: You don’t realize how powerful pausing and slowing down can be until you actually do it.
A creative pause is not just about problem-solving or generating new ideas; it’s also about making wise choices when your emotions urge you to react quickly.
- That moment before sending a harsh message
- That silence before saying something you’ll regret
- That decision to walk away instead of exploding
All of it, that’s the pause in action. It is not weakness, it is wisdom
Now here’s where I’d like to challenge your perspective, not just as a writer, but as a human being:
Do you confuse momentum with progress?
Sometimes we think pausing means we’re not doing enough. But what if the real breakthroughs happen in the stillness?
What if you’ve been calling urgency your strength when, in fact, your true power lies in your ability to wait, breathe, and make deliberate choices?
This week, when something tugs at your emotions, whether it’s a creative block, tough decision, or rising temper, try to pause for just a few moments. Take a step back, walk away, and take a deep breath. You may return with greater clarity, kindness, and strength.
The world will keep spinning fast, but you don’t have to match its pace to find your power.
Sometimes, the most creative and courageous thing you can do is simply stop.
From scattered notes to quiet reflections, this is my creative space.
