This article is authored by Stand Out Online Member Jen Bennett, Get Desky
In a world that glorifies hustle culture and constant productivity, there’s a quiet revolution brewing among successful women: the art of strategic pausing. While it might seem counterintuitive, incorporating deliberate breaks into your daily routine could be the game-changer you’ve been searching for.
I discovered this truth the hard way, after years of running on empty and wearing my exhaustion like a badge of honor. The turning point came during a particularly grueling month when my body finally forced me to stop. What started as a dreaded pause became an unexpected gateway to greater clarity and creativity.
Here’s what research tells us: our brains actually do their best work when we step back. Those “aha moments” rarely come when we’re staring intensely at a problem. Instead, they emerge during walks, showers, or quiet moments with a cup of tea. It’s in these pauses that our minds process information, make connections, and unlock solutions we couldn’t see before.
But let’s be honest – taking breaks isn’t just about productivity. It’s about reclaiming our relationship with rest and rejecting the guilt that often accompanies it. When we consciously choose to pause, we’re making a powerful statement about our worth beyond our output.
Start small. Schedule five-minute breathing breaks between meetings. Take a proper lunch away from your desk. Set boundaries around your work hours. These aren’t signs of weakness; they’re investments in your long-term success and wellbeing.
The most successful women I know aren’t the ones who never stop – they’re the ones who’ve mastered the rhythm of engagement and recovery. They understand that their power lies not in perpetual motion, but in the strategic balance between doing and being.
Remember: You’re not a machine that needs constant operation. You’re a human being who requires cycles of rest and activation to perform at your best. Your breaks aren’t just breaks – they’re the foundation of your strength.
I’m Jen Bennett, a dynamic entrepreneur and CEO/Founder of Get Desky. My mission is to empower business owners to create innovative solutions that drive real results for their clients, while also fostering diverse communities where everyone has access to opportunities.Inspired by a legacy of entrepreneurship, being a 3rd generation woman entrepreneur, I’ve dedicated my career to helping others succeed.