Permission to Pause

These last few weeks have been nothing short of amazing. I'm finally settled into my new place of peacefulness and tranquility (not that my other home was not), traveled with my family to celebrate the nuptials of my brother, and hosted my best girlfriends as they visited from Maryland. I have poured out and been replenished in more ways than one over the last month or so. I always say.....#charitystartsathome. Therefore, if you're not giving first to your loved ones, then perhaps motives need to be checked when given to others.

With all that giving and pouring, and receiving and replenishing, I needed to take a moment for me. To reflect. To pause in stillness.

Over the years, I had been one who equated busyness with productivity. A #riseandgrind type of chick. Growing my business was first priority. The more money I made the more money I wanted to make. So the grind never stopped. Somehow, I'd always come up feeling short or feeling like I needed to be replenished. I've since learned to take periodic pauses to not just enjoy loved ones, but to serve me.

A few months ago, I committed to doing #nonprofitdevelopment sessions LIVE every Monday and Thursday, but to be honest.....it's been challenging keeping up with the commitment. Life happens. And, it seems to happen heavily on Mondays and Thursdays (lol). I'm getting older and wiser (almost 50!). I come first. My well-being is priority. And, I stand firm that one cannot give from an empty cup.

This entire week has been a reawakening for me. A reset, if you will. No more guilt for living. I'm pausing to nap at the pool. Taking time to bake a cake (and eating a slice). Binging on past episodes of #Girlfriends. Building and cultivating personal relationships. And, walking slowly while taking in the view of my new neighborhood.

I'm also praying fervently. My spirit has been malnourished for a long time. I now realize that I need more than the quick prayers at night and in the morning. I need to go deeper. To worship. To pray without being concerned with the clock. I have to pause to replenish my spirit.

Yes, the #nonprofitcoach, #savvyservant is still in session. However, I am pausing on a regular basis to serve me.

Catch me LIVE on this Thursday at 7pm-ish on Instagram.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." --Matthew 11:28