How do you know when it’s time to stop or step away from the action? Ideally, you want to do this before you get into trouble or roll into overload. Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to identify those recurring experiences in daily life that could trigger a pause. Here are ten examples.

1. Between phone calls and client contacts.
   Stop racing. Leave the last. Take a moment. Take a breath. Be present with the next.
2. Before diving into a new task.
   Make the time to think about your approach and why you are tackling this task at all.
3. At the end of each activity.
   Reflect on your experience. Draw out the lessons and the learning.
4. When feelings flood and tempers flare.
   Name the thoughts that fire your emotions. Give sober second thought to what you’ll say and do next.
5. When you are confused.
   Speedy actions based on fuzzy thinking create more messes than solutions.
6. When moving from one place to another.
   Be conscious of where you’ve been, where you’re headed…and why you’re on the move!
7. When encountering the strange or unusual.
   Appreciate unique ideas and experiences. Note where they take you and how you react.
8. When mindlessly breezing through commonplace routine.
   Keep everyday experiences from turning into one big meaningless blur.
9. When marking a milestone of any size.
   Harvest satisfaction all day long. Note accomplishments – big and small.
10. When one you value is in your presence.
    You may have only this one precious moment to let that person know you care.

© Patricia Katz MCE CHRP of Optimus Consulting is a speaker, author and consultant who helps individuals and organizations restore the rhythm of renewal to work and life. To bring Patricia’s expertise to your organization, contact her at www.patkatz.com or toll free at (877) 728-5289.