19/10/2024
You may not have tested this - but I have since learned of the power of a pause - when you sit down, switch off the phone and the microphone and listen in order to hear what is being.
Living in a world that glorifies speaking up, taking the lead, and being heard, we often forget the profound power of simply sitting down, switching off the mic, and listening. We rush to share our thoughts, experiences, and solutions, but sometimes the most transformative moments happen when we choose silence over speech.
Life’s greatest lessons aren’t always found in the noise we create but in the quiet moments when we choose to pause. Pausing is not a sign of weakness; it’s a powerful act of humility and strength. When we intentionally slow down, we open ourselves up to the wisdom, perspectives, and stories of others -- things we may miss when we are too eager to speak.
o when I attended the National Education Expo 2024 ( ) hosted by Dr Dr. Daniel Ngombo Kabani of DNK General Consultancy I spent much of the day listening to other speakers. My scheduled slot even came and passed because they reshuffled the programme. I was not perturbed as this allowed me to sit back as it were in a "cleft of the rock" and listen and take notes of what I was hearing. This created a deep connection with each speaker. It allowed me to step into the shoes of the speakers and understand their joys, struggles, and dreams. When I committed to truly listen, I offered myself and the audience, the rare gift of my presence. I communicated that the people who were speaking before me, matter, that their voice is important, and that their story deserves to be heard and learnt from.
But this pause isn't just about others; it’s also about us. It’s an opportunity for self-reflection, growth, and learning. The pause allows us to process our own thoughts, recalibrate, and align our actions with purpose. It invites us to gain clarity and find wisdom that noise and constant activity often drown out.
On that day, in those moments of stillness before my presentation I become a student of life, absorbing the richness of every conversation and every encounter. It transformed not only my perspective but also the lives of those around me. By the time I stood up to speak, later in the day, I had my presentation as well as a list of 17 key messages I had written down on my a4 paper. I will plan to create coaching clips from these 17 messages that I heard. The speakers said their messages, experiences and aspirations and I wrote what I was hearing them say (not what they said).
So, sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is sit down, switch off the mic, and listen. Embrace the pause. Listen deeply. You might just discover the power and beauty of silence.
I am writing this on a Sabbath Day! So, sit down and listen carefully to what your God is telling you. take notes and implement what you are hearing Him say to you.
Picture Credits: Yayo Media
