At the age of 15, I learned that a pause could save a life.
A sniper had me in his sights. I pretended I had been hit and remained completely still. In that moment, I listened and observed. I called upon everything within me: my knowledge, instincts, awareness, and courage. I considered where I could hide, when it might be safe to move, and what I would do if an opportunity to run appeared.
I paused. When the right moment came, I acted. I survived.
That traumatic experience has stayed with me. I would never describe trauma itself as a gift, but it taught me something about my own capacity. Even in an overwhelming situation, I could access the resources within me and make a conscious decision.
Listening for your inner resources
What inner resources become available to you when you give yourself time to listen?
In Co-Active coaching, we believe that every person is naturally creative, resourceful, and whole. You do not need someone else to provide all the answers. Often, the wisdom you need is already within you. A pause can create the space to hear it.
Pausing does not mean avoiding a decision. It is not about remaining in reflection forever. It is about becoming present enough to notice what is happening, consider what matters, and choose your next step.
As your coach, I do not stand outside your experience and tell you what to do. We form a partnership in which we explore what is present, challenge familiar patterns, and listen for what wants to emerge. I bring curiosity, attention, and honest questions. You bring your experiences, values, courage, and capacity to choose.
Together, we create room for both reflection and action.
Try a one-minute pause
The next time something triggers an immediate reaction, perhaps a difficult email, an uncomfortable conversation, or an unexpected problem, try pausing for one minute.
Step away. Breathe. Notice what you are feeling and what your first impulse is telling you. Then ask yourself:
- What is really happening here?
- What matters most to me in this moment?
- Which of my inner resources can I call upon?
- What outcome do I want to create?
- What action would reflect the person I choose to be?
Then decide. Act.
If you trusted that you were already creative, resourceful, and whole, what choice would you make now?