Every day we have several updates of the COVID-19 or Coronavirus.

Every day, we see anxiety and hoarding.

Even the most positive among us are fearful. It is difficult when it is everywhere.

What if we just pause? I call it the Pause Effect.

I will explain what I mean shortly.

Let’s just stop for a moment and look around.

Our world is in crisis. This much is clear.

It is important for us to listen to the experts on this disease and heed their advice.

Most people are over scheduled. We over book ourselves and our kids constantly.

It doesn’t really give us time to breathe and enjoy or even notice the beauty around us, does it?

Even when we aren’t scheduled, we are looking down at our phones. We do this so much, there is a medical condition called Tech Neck. Truly sad indeed.

Enter COVID-19.

The world stops. The virus is spreading at an unprecedented speed.

Fear rises daily. We are told to self-isolate. People are hoarding.

Stores, malls, schools and offices are all shut down.

We are staying home to save lives which is a good thing, but equally difficult.

We do not have control over the virus other than self-isolation and suggested precautions.

We do, however, have control on how we respond to our situation.

Time for the Pause Effect.

Instead of living in constant fear during this time, why not pause.

Think about it.

Why not turn off all media outlets and social media, even temporarily and turn to those around us.

This crisis gives us the opportunity to do something we have not done in a very long time; pause.

When is the last time any of us has had uninterrupted time with our family?

When was the last time we played board games?

Watched a movie?

Played in the backyard with the dog?

So many people are exhausted and overworked.

This is what I call The Pause Effect. Pause and pay attention to those around us.

When is the last time any of us has intentionally taken the time?

Sad, isn’t it?

Now is the time! All is not lost!

Binge watch a television series, make popcorn and watch a movie.

Facetime with friends for coffee instead of hitting a coffee shop.

Experience gratefulness for this precious, uninterrupted time together.

Make it count.

Not everything is doom and gloom online.

I have seen several musicians posting concerts, live meditations, interactive games.

Look for ways to interact.

Yes, the Coronavirus has changed how we live our lives but sometimes change is a good thing. It has made us slow down and look around.

We are connecting with each other again.

As Louise Hay said, “It is only a thought and a thought can be changed.”

Let’s change our thinking. It is time to change HOW we think.

Instead of fear, let’s focus on this gift of time we have been given.

We will eventually go back to our busy lives.

Appreciate The Pause Effect.