- Spirituality
The Power of the Pause: Why Taking a Break is the Secret to Thriving in Business
- January 29, 2025
Explore how strategic pauses and intentional breaks can transform productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. Discuss the science behind pausing, the importance of scheduling “white space” in a busy schedule, and practical tips for creating meaningful moments of rest. Inspire your readers to redefine “success” as a balance of action and reflection, showcasing examples of successful women who thrive by embracing pauses.
A Few Years Ago: Every email notification felt like an alarm bell. I was working late into the night, missing family dinners, and constantly feeling “on.” One day, I came across the story of Arianna Huffington collapsing from exhaustion, and it hit me, I was heading in the same direction.
That was my wake-up call. I decided to take a radical step: a one-week digital detox.
Why We Resist the Pause
We live in a world that equates busyness with success. The mantra is clear: “Hustle harder, work longer, achieve more.”
But here’s the catch: women, particularly those balancing careers and families, are often stuck in overdrive. It’s not just about work, it’s about being everything to everyone.
When you’re running on empty, even the smallest tasks can feel overwhelming. That’s why pausing feels counterintuitive. We think stopping will make us fall behind when, in reality, it’s the only way to move forward.
My One-Week Digital Detox
It wasn’t easy to unplug. The first two days were filled with anxiety! “What if I miss an important email?” But as the week went on, something shifted:
- Day 3: Clarity. I had a breakthrough idea for a project that was stalled for months!
- Day 5: Connection. I noticed my kids smiling more at dinner.
- Day 7: Renewal. I felt rested and motivated, ready to tackle my to-do list with a fresh perspective.
That’s when I realised. The week off wasn’t just about rest. It was about rediscovering the joy of presence–something I had unknowingly sacrificed to the hustle.
What Science Says About Taking Breaks
The benefits of pausing aren’t just anecdotal; they’re backed by research. A study published in the Harvard Business Review found that taking breaks can improve decision-making, boost creativity, and reduce stress.
How to Incorporate Pauses Into Your Life
Now, taking a break doesn’t require a tropical vacation or a drastic sabbatical.
Start small and watch how it transforms your day:
A Challenge for You
This week, try a pause:
- Take one evening completely off from work.
- Spend 10 minutes journaling about your priorities.
- Go for a walk without your phone.
Pay attention to what shifts. Often, it’s in the stillness that our next steps become clear.
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I'm Lavanya Mahate
Lavanya Mahate is a Soulpreneur, entrepreneur, restaurateur, mentor, podcaster, speaker, and heart-centered business woman. Her journey is one where passion fuels purpose and tradition blends seamlessly with innovation. From managing ten vibrant restaurants to guiding women on their entrepreneurial paths, Lavanya’s mission is to inspire soulful living and purposeful growth. Through her writing, she shares wisdom and strategies to empower individuals to lead with authenticity, balance, and joy in both personal and professional spheres.
