what do you need?

Over the weekend, an individual I have a ton of respect for read my suggestion about Slowing Down in my weekly newsletter.   She suggested I address the reality that many of us are facing during these challenging times.  She noted that we may be looking at reduced funding for our organizations, more demands on our time, and competing priorities.  Finally, if we're lucky enough to have our jobs, we're faced with a mixture of deep concern and gratitude.   She understandably noted that perhaps some of us don't have the luxury of slowing down.  Perhaps the best we can hope for is taking a break.

In looking at what I just wrote, my first reaction is similar to what I often tell people if I invite people them to a coaching conversation and they respond "I can't do that- I have absolutely no time!"  If I hear that, I feel even more conviction in my offer this person an introductory coaching conversation.  The  thought is that if you can't take an hour for yourself, you should probably take two!  

But perhaps that's unfair of me to say.  I'm not in anyone's shoes but my own.  While I can advise myself to slow down and believe that can be universally helpful. it is simply my perspective.  And that's what the coaching is.  It is me (as the coach) being clear that I'm not the expert on anyone - you are the expert on you.  The best I can do is ask you questions that get you talking to yourself (in a good way that is!).  It's me making some inquiries to help you get to the greatness that's in you out there in the open.

So, here are questions I'd ask or you can ask yourself - if you're in a place where you feel like you can't slow down - or take a break:

• What's your biggest fear in setting aside time for yourself?  
• What's the best outcome that can come from taking no breaks in your work - whether it's an hour or a complete day of R&R?  Is that the outcome you're looking for?
• What are you telling yourself if you're not willing to give yourself the gift of time and space?
• Are you listening to your inner wisdom or something else?
• ​What do you need to be at your best?

I don't know if there's responds to what my friend was asking.  I can say that this is the most honest answer I can give while still believing I'm sharing out of a genuine sense of service.  I hope it helps any of you who might be feeling like you can't slow down or take a break.