Why We Should Take a Pause and Slow Down

Late last year, I looked at my calendar and knew January and February were packed to the brim. I mean, overbooked to the point where I could already feel the exhaustion creeping in before the year had even begun. And now? I really feel it. 😮‍💨

I work full-time, run a business, plan weekend events, teach classes, and, most importantly, try to balance my family life. But lately, my family has been getting the leftovers of my energy, and that’s not how it should be. It’s not how I want it to be.

And the hardest part? I don’t even have time to practice what I preach.

That’s when I realized something had to change.

So, I’ve done the best I can—I’ve moved some commitments around, paused what I could, and now I’m looking at March with a different mindset. March is my birthday month, and instead of piling on more tasks, I’m choosing to slow down, pour into myself, and welcome in a renewed version of me.

And you know what? You should, too.

The Power of Slowing Down

In a world that glorifies busyness, slowing down feels like rebellion. We wear our packed schedules like a badge of honor, proving how productive, valuable, and indispensable we are. But at what cost?

The truth is, constantly running at full speed isn’t sustainable. It wears us down physically, emotionally, and mentally. And yet, we push through, convinced we don’t have the time to take a break. But here’s what I’ve learned:

1. Slowing Down Reconnects You with What Matters Most

When life moves too fast, the most important things—family, self-care, personal passions—get pushed to the side. Slowing down lets you refocus on what truly matters.

For me, that means being fully present with my loved ones instead of just squeezing them into the gaps of my schedule. It means enjoying a quiet morning without rushing to the next thing. It means taking a breath and feeling like myself again.

2. Rest Isn’t a Reward—It’s a Necessity

How often do we tell ourselves, “I’ll rest when I finish this project.” Or “I just need to get through this month, then I’ll take a break.”

But that break never comes, does it?

Rest isn’t something you earn—it’s something you need. Just like you wouldn’t expect your phone to keep working on 1% battery, you can’t expect yourself to function at your best without recharging.

3. Your Best Ideas and Growth Come in Stillness

Some of the most profound realizations, creative ideas, and personal growth moments happen when we slow down. When we’re constantly doing, we don’t have space to just be.

For me, stepping back in March isn’t about doing nothing—it’s about making room for something better. I want to welcome a fresh version of myself in April, one who isn’t exhausted and overwhelmed but energized and intentional.

4. Slowing Down Helps You Show Up as Your Best Self

When you’re burnt out, you’re not showing up as the best version of yourself—for your family, your work, your business, or you. Pausing allows you to recalibrate, recharge, and return stronger.

5. You Deserve to Be Cared For, Too

We pour into everything and everyone else, often leaving ourselves last on the list. But taking time to slow down isn’t selfish—it’s self-respect. You deserve the same love, care, and attention you so freely give to others.

March Is My Slow-Down Month—What About You?

I’m committing to making March a month of intentional slowing down. Not just because I need it (which I definitely do), but because I deserve it.

And if you’re feeling the weight of overcommitment, exhaustion, or just the constant go-go-go pace of life, maybe you should, too.

What would it look like if you allowed yourself to pause? To rest? To breathe?

Maybe you don’t have to wait for burnout to force you into it. Maybe you can choose it—right now.

Let’s see where this new, rested, and rejuvenated version of us takes us. ❤️