Why slowing down and reflecting matters more than ever.

Recently, I was invited to attend the Modern Elder Academy in Baja, California. A few years ago, this is something I probably wouldn’t have said yes to. But after conversations with my colleagues, Dawna MacLean and George Rafferty, I decided to commit and I’m very glad I did.

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We live in a world that moves fast. Being busy, productive, and constantly connected is often seen as a badge of honor. In the middle of all this, slowing down and taking time to think is usually the first thing we skip. Yet these simple acts, pausing and reflecting are essential for our mental health, emotional balance, and overall well-being.

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Why pausing Is so important 

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Pausing isn’t just about stopping for a moment. It’s about intentionally slowing down so you can reset. When you pause, you give your mind and body a chance to calm down. This helps reduce stress and anxiety and moves you out of constant “fight-or-flight” mode.

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Even something as simple as taking a few deep breaths can help you feel more grounded and present. A short pause can prevent you from reacting automatically and instead allow you to respond more thoughtfully… especially in stressful or emotional situations.

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The power of reflection 

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Reflection takes pausing one step further. It’s where real insight begins. During my time slowing down and looking inward, I made an important discovery: a majority of my values, perspective, and leadership style were shaped by my two grandfathers.

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In the rush of everyday life, it’s easy to forget where our beliefs and behaviors come from. Reflection gave me the space to see how much their influence still lives in me and through the way I make decisions, treat people, and define what really matters. Their lessons weren’t loud or flashy; they were steady, grounded, and deeply human. And those lessons continue to guide me more than I realized.

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This realization was powerful because it reminded me that wisdom doesn’t always come from new ideas or outside voices. Sometimes it comes from slowing down long enough to recognize the quiet influence that’s been with us all along.

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Stepping away from the everyday noise 

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Places like the Modern Elder Academy are built around this idea. MEA creates intentional space through retreats, workshops, and programs for people to step away from daily distractions and reconnect with what truly matters.

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By removing constant noise and urgency, reflection becomes possible. Silence starts to speak. Perspective sharpens. Purpose comes back into focus.

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Why this matters 

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When pausing and reflection become habits rather than one-time experiences, they offer far more than rest. They help us:

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Reduce stress and emotional reactivity

Make decisions that align with our values

Better understand who shaped us and why

Strengthen relationships through clarity and presence

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In a world that celebrates speed, slowing down can feel uncomfortable. But it’s often in these quieter moments that we uncover the deepest truths about ourselves.

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Taking time to reflect isn’t stepping away from life … it’s learning how to live it with greater meaning and awareness.

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Thank you to Dawna MacLean George Rafferty Steve Fernandez Gina Clark Claire Biermaas for an incredible and meaningful experience.