STOP…A Word for Your Day

By Jane Bishop

STOP! What a powerful word! It can evoke a range of emotions depending on the context. Note what thought or feeling was triggered when you read that word. How did it affect you? What did it remind you of? How did you recognize its gravity? How you answer these curiosity questions will provide insight into your view of this word STOP.

When you check the definition of STOP, these phrases will populate: “an event, action, or process come to an end;” “prevent an event or action from happening;” and “a break or halt during a journey.” The word STOP can serve us well, especially when we are in the chaos, busyness, or stress of life. Think about how when you’re driving down the road, you’ll often encounter a STOP sign. This is because you’ve come to a point where you need to pause, look around, and assess your surroundings to determine the safety of your continued movement.

The word STOP and the process it ignites can be applicable to all areas of your life. The opposite also gives us insight into life. How often do you observe other drivers not pausing at a stop sign? The outcome of not responding to what the sign is telling can create chaos. Applied to life, what is the outcome when there is no stopping to pause and consider what is working and what is not working?

How would practicing “stop” benefit you? Perhaps it is STOP and simply take a moment for yourself. Perhaps it is STOP and express gratitude or encouragement to someone you know. At times, it may be helpful to STOP and put activities and/or tasks in the “parking lot.” Someone has said, “The key to getting things done is knowing what to leave undone.” I believe the challenge may be embracing and accepting the “undone.” To leave undone is not necessarily a failure, but rather a reminder that we can have everything, just not at the same time.

In this current climate of work, to-do lists, unrealistic expectations, commitments, etc., the practice of STOP has never been more essential. STOP is a tool that anyone can use to reduce stress, re-collect self, and move forward in the best way possible. STOP, get quiet, eliminate all the noise, and then reset.

STOP is a powerful practice for self-care, self-management, and self-awareness, which helps us tend to our self-leadership. My encouragement to you today is to STOP, pause, and think. Ask yourself, “How can STOP serve me today?”

More information at www.janebishoplive.com.