Time: 30 Minutes - 1 Hour
STEP 1: Find a coffee shop – maybe it’s your favorite or maybe it’s one out of the way where you won’t run into anyone you know. Challenge yourself to visit an independent coffee shop—that way you can try a new drink or some house made pastries while supporting a local business. Enjoy the smell of coffee, see others interacting, and simply observe people without having to participate.
STEP 2: Grab a drink and if the weather is nice find a good seat on the patio for people watching. If not, stay inside and enjoy the smells and buzz in the atmosphere. As you enjoy your drink observe others’ body language, smiles, outfits…no judgment, just observation.
STEP 3: Allow yourself to mentally leave your current situation and be in curiosity mode. This will help you calm your nerves, relax a bit, and possibly gain a new perspective on things simply because you are taking time away from it…a mental time-out if you will.
STEP 4: If the urge arises write down any thoughts of clarity that come to mind. Don’t pressure yourself to resolve whatever issue is causing you stress. Instead passively view the situation from an objective point of view. Sometimes a change of scenery can give you a fresh new perspective on things.
STEP 5: Thank God or the universe for this break in your day to just BE. As you return to your normal routine, be aware of how healing that experience was for you. Push back on those initial feelings of guilt you may have from stepping away from work or a stressful situation. You are strong enough to handle these circumstances; sometimes all you need is a moment away to reconnect to your strength.
