The Power of Pause: Becoming More by Doing Less

by Terry Hershey

Slowing down in a fast-forward world

Terry Hershey, an ordained minister and popular speaker, understands that slowing down is difficult when life is busy and getting busier. However, he also knows from personal experience that there is always a price to pay if we don't regularly take time simply to pause to cease activity, to treasure quiet time, and to discern the deep meaning of life s little moments.

In The Power of Pause, Hershey counters the cultural decree that says slowing down is not an option if we want to lead a fulfilling life by constantly doing something and, at least metaphorically speaking, going somewhere. Through fifty-two short chapters each filled with an inspiring quote, a powerful story/meditation, and a specific call to action we come to realize the profound value of slowing down our days and balancing our lives. Most important, we are challenged by Hershey s meditations to rethink how it is that we can best move forward in our lives; the process of pausing is what allows us to make intentional decisions rather than reactionary ones, and to refocus our lives and goals on the things that truly count.

From overworked employees to overwhelmed parents, from ministry leaders to spiritual seekers, The Power of Pause encourages all of us to slow down, reconnect with what is important, and take back the life we were always intended to have.

Genres: Nonfiction, Spirituality, Personal Development, Self Help

233 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2009

Reviews

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this light-hearted, book Terry Hersey describes the importance and value of taking a break from obligations. He does this in an interesting way. He begins his book with early winter, then proceeds through the seasons with season-applicable ideas and suggestions. Each short chapter can be read in a matter of a few minutes, and each contains a story, an inspirational quote, and an activity that the reader can do to promote pausing. This is well-written and easy-to-read. The suggestions are useful and helpful. I recommend this book to those who would like to learn how to slow down and savor their lives.

[Thành Tuấn · Rating 4 out of 5]

if you are stucking in working and be stressful, tired , this book will save you. I have read this book . It teaches me to love myself, my apperance, respect the present, enjoy the small things around us, stop for a moment when you are tired during working . I like this book ,but iam not a christian so i don't understand it completely. But in short, i still like it ! You should read it once in your life

[Chris · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book needs to be taken in small bites and with time. Learning to chill is sort of like wine- you need to stop and just ferment in the moment- then continue on the new path incorporating what your are learning.

[Melinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book that will guide one to the path you are meant to be on. Hershey tells it likes it is with a faith-based approach on taking moments in our lives to just be in the moment. Great writing and speaks to the mind and soul. Highly recommend!

[Nhung Gau Meo · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's quite good. It makes me feel better when i feel low

[Kathrine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will read this again and again

[Michelle Hamm]

Definitely recommend!

[Kelli Sites · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book among the new arrivals at the public library, and I've dubbed it my new "gift book" to anyone in my life who unwittingly assumes too many to do's and shoulda's. It's a reminder that silence is more than golden -- it is holy (in the spiritual sense, not purely religious way).

It will challenge you to become more by being less. Ooh, that makes you cringe just as the site of those words, eh? Whether you're Christian, Jewish (or neither), you'll like the analogy of seeking rest and space to Sabbath / Shabbat.

Read it. I dare you. And let me know what you think!

[Julie Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

#91-2010

I really liked this when I read it the first time (my review is here) and now the book club is reading it. Nothing better than rereading something that helped change your life ... my husband and I began keeping Sundays as a day of rest ... especially when we now need a little jolt as we have somewhat slipped out of the habit.

Now rereading for the Elements of Faith bookclub meeting. AND enjoying it as much as I did the first time.

[Melinda · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found the format of this book a little difficult. It is laid out in 52 segments, suitable to read one per week and following the seasons of a year. There are also assignments for you to do in each segment. I had it on loan from the library, do needed to read it in a few days.

It was a worthwhile quick read, and emphasizes different ways to slow down, to say no to some things and yes to the ones you really want to do. But it was a little lighter than I had expected.

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a truly excellent contemplative accessible book with brief chapter essays convincing the reader to slow down and pay attention to life. Each essay is beautifully written, many with a short story format. All of the chapters are situations we can all relate to. The writing is warm and had the effect of a little "poke" at the end of each essay, a reminder on how to act on what you just read. Can be read in bits and pieces.

[Hiep Nguyen · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the fast-changing world, people are crazily rushing for materialistic purposes & leaving behind true happiness disguised in simple forms (e.g play with kids, admire nature, DIY). Sometimes, a pause in certain moments of life can turn around our messy world, transforming it into a peaceful place that nurtures our soul n compassion. Simple tips are presented in ordinary stories in an easy-to-read writing. Highly recommended for busy guys!

[Ly Casnocha · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book and found it memorable. It was true and profound as well. Normally in the modern age of industrialization and materialism, people tend to expect productivity and a fast-paced lifestyle. Most are driven by materialism and lack of concern for the less conditioned social classes. This book brought an interesting perspective that by doing opposite, or going against these materialistic trends that people can acquire more well-being and maintain a healthy life.

[Haydee Duarte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book so much. Borrowed from the library 3x, and considering buying it to keep. I have looked back on so many passages to stay motivated and remind myself that slowing down is an intentional activity worth pursuing. I love the quotes, the short stories and how easy it is to read. Simple, short and sweet, but very powerful.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to read this book for work as part of professional development. While some of it seemed a little too Chicken Soup for me, some passages were very powerful and contrite. I even marked them to go back to.

[Kelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book. Many of my summer mornings began with reading a couple chapters of this and drinking a cup of coffee. It has a lot of spiritual wisdom. It reminded me to slow down, live life in the here & now, & see God in the ordinariness of everyday living.

[Gerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm reading this as part of my morning prayer.
It'll take a long time.
It's a great reminder of taking time, enjoying life, being grateful, finding out what's really important.

[Raquel Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just reading it makes you mindful to pause.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick, easy read. Reiterates what we already know - we are all trying to do too much all of the time. Good stories and quotes.

[Krista Stevens · Rating 2 out of 5]

Great stories for our stressed out nation - but overall, it's not enough meat for my taste and he's a little too self-deprecating for me. Good resource, however, for inspirational speeches.

[Athena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Terry's sense of humor and the poignant stories and quotes sprinkled throughout the book.

[Bernadette Johnson]

Such a relevent book for our times of 'want it yesterday' mentality. Great stories of appreciation of being present and the rewards of BEing so!

[Julie · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was okay. The "chapters" are two, maybe three, pages and useful but not particularly creative. I just didn't couldn't get into a habit of reading each morning when it would be most useful.

[Hologram Ninethousand · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is made up of many small segments with activities, including a few accessible online. I found some more relatable than others.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great, thought provoking book! Short chapters, easy to read. If you are overwhelmed, this is a good book to help you.

[Marita · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to this on CDs. Very relaxing, just what I was looking for.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent resource for ideas and stories of people who need to slow down. Can be read in short increments or all at once.