Sometimes the only way to move forward is to stop doing and re-evaluate. Going around in circles keeps you busy but it does not get you far. When you pause, you take the time to see clearly what the circumstances are around you and what is coming from your own mind, through your thoughts. You can not influence external events, however, you can choose to change the elements within yourself.
Stillness is Necessary for Growth
Manifestation is the flow of energy to create a desired outcome. Sometimes the energy is strong and clear, other times it feels elusive. The energy is forever moving, even when you are not. As with all periods of growth, stillness is necessary. Don’t overlook this part of your journey or minimize its importance.
Think of yourself like a seed. You are full of potential but need the proper condition to grow. The seed requires nutrients, water and the correct temperature to sprout. When this happens, under the surface, germination occurs. The seed becomes a physical manifestation of a flower. As you can’t force a seed to flower, you also can’t force your process to happen quicker.
Divine Timing
There are two types of timing, Divine timing and ego’s timing. Divine timing ensures all is unfolding according to our highest and best good. Often we don’t understand why certain events happen or why we have to wait. It is a humbling experience to accept we cannot control time, no matter how much we want to. The ego’s timing requires immediate responses and movement. This works well when it corresponds to Divine timing. Sometimes it does not.
Forcing the process or flow of energy, through ego’s timing creates frustration, suffering and impatience. Over time, these states lead to inflammation and dis-ease.
Feeling All the Feels
Pausing causes you to come in contact with all the feelings you experience waiting. It is normal to feel upset, angry, disappointed and even hurt. Feel all the feelings and release them. Write them out, talk to a friend or trusted counselor. This process will allow you to get in contact with your higher self.
Your Intuitive Self
When you develop a detached awareness, you go below the surface level of thinking and feeling, to actually “knowing.” Here you will find your intuitive self, who knows what is the best course of action for you. Unlike the ego, who pushes you forward aggressively, the intuitive self guides with a gentle hand. There are times you will need the ego energy and other times it can work against you. Only by slowing down and pausing, will you discover the answer and direction you need to take.
Once you are grounded, centered and detached, you can separate the outside world’s energy from your own. It is at this point, you will know without a doubt, what your next step is- if any. Trust in the process and in yourself. You will learn when you distance or put a pause on an issue temporarily, you will gain the perspective you seek.
What is your experience with the pause?
Lisa Hutchison LMHC is a licensed psychotherapist and writing coach. She works for caring professionals, who want to prevent or treat compassion fatigue. Her specialty is teaching stress management, assertiveness and boundary setting. Lisa is the Amazon bestselling author of I Fill My Cup: A Journal for Compassionate Helpers and the kindle book Setting Ethical Limits for Caring & Competent Professionals. Get a FREE 10 page E-book; Why Compassionate People Run Out of Energy and What You Can Do About It at http://www.lisahutchison.net