Break (n)  A pause in work or activity; (v)  Separate into pieces or interrupt

Brake (n) Device for slowing down or stopping a vehicle; (v)  Slowing down or stopping of a vehicle or movement

This week’s word came up out of the Word Well by chance.  When I took a break last week from writing, it was one of those slap-the-forehead moments!

I find it interesting that both spellings of the word basically allude to a pause or a stoppage. I’m taking a break – I’m pausing my action, whether work, a hobby, a chore.  If I apply the brakes, I am pausing momentum; it is still stopping.  If I break my leg, I have separated into pieces- ouch!  Just like taking a break, I have separated my task into pieces.  Tough words to understand if learning English as a second language.

Last week I took a break.  It wasn’t planned.  I realized as I sat with my laptop, nothing was flowing out of the creative tank.  I needed a refresh which goes along with this week’s blogpost Slot Cars.  There was nothing happening. I recognized in that moment, I have the power to take a break.  I can choose to stop, recharge, renew and reset.  Coming to the realization was so simple.  Who is pushing the momentum?  Who is creating the schedule?  Who is adding more obligations?  Do you know what the answer was to each of those questions?  ME!!!!

Most people would think that being retired affords me the abundance of time.  It does indeed.  However, what comes alongside, is the never-ending desire to do more.  I want to do all the things – ride the bike, venture out on the scooter, take the walks, create the art, write the book, play with the grandkids, spend time with friends, travel, organize the closets, etc.  The days quickly fill to capacity when the more practical obligations creep in – clean the house, make the appointments, grocery shop, keep the appointments, maintain the vehicles, do the time (jury duty, that is), etc.  Before I know it, the schedule becomes overwhelming.  Pump the brakes! 

Our days fill much more quickly when work and family come into play.  The desire to do ALL the things can be even more challenging.  Remember, who holds the power to slow things down?  We do!  Take the break.  It doesn’t need to be an elaborate vacation.  Sometimes, even the slightest of pauses can make a difference.  Self-care sounds selfish but it is the best thing we can do for those close to us.  Our state of mind and wellbeing trickles down to those around us.  If we’re in a good mood, everyone benefits!  Don’t minimize the impact of taking that break or putting on the brakes.  Stopping for a while may actually allow increase and calm in all our areas of doing.