Take a Breather

Sometimes we hit a wall and just need to walk away for a few...

...minutes. Hours. Days.

We're facing a problem we can't get our head around, a challenge that won't budge, an issue with no obvious exit, and all we want is the answer.

So we push harder. Think more. Research further. All valid approaches.

...but we've been at it for what feels like forever and nothing is moving.

Take a breather.

But we can't. Deadlines are closing in, there's so much more to do, and time is the one thing we don't have right now.

Take a breather.

But there's this and that and what's-his-name on my back and the boss asking when and...

Take a breather.

When we're in the middle of a crisis, walking away is the last thing that feels useful. But many times, it's exactly what works, and it can even be fun. :)

I've been stuck more times than I can count: frustrated, out of patience, out of desire. And walking away proved consistently to be the best call. I'd look at something else, think differently, and suddenly notice angles and directions my locked-in mind couldn't generate.

Took a breather. Came back and put the pieces together.

Sometimes the hardest thing is letting go. But it might be the best move you make.