By Raquel Salas
Special for El Inmobiliario
The sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and violet, as I drove back from Santo Domingo to Punta Cana. A gentle breeze rustled the palm fronds, and the sound of music filled the air. At that moment, I found myself singing along at the top of my lungs to Kany García's song "García," a melody that has always resonated deeply with me. However, when I reached the verse that says, "I want to slow this train down for a moment, but I can't," a wave of emotions washed over me. A drizzle trickled through my eyes, and a crucial question arose in my mind: Do you need to stop, Raquel? What's preventing you from slowing down?
This wasn't the article I had planned for today. In fact, I'm writing this on a Saturday afternoon, driven by the need to reflect on the importance of disconnecting, putting down our phones, leaving meetings, and resting. As the author of a guide on self-love and time management, I realize that sometimes even those of us who preach about self-care forget the need to take a break.
In the real estate sector, this need becomes even more pressing. The nature of our work pushes us to live in a state of constant activity. Phones never stop ringing, text messages arrive at all hours, and appointments are scheduled nonstop. We find ourselves trapped in a seemingly endless cycle of "doing." However, it is precisely in this frenetic environment that pausing becomes an act of courage and wisdom.
I'm reminded of the architect and businesswoman Yermys Peña, who, in her excellent article on the invisible price of never stopping, invites us to reflect on the difference between resilience and resistance. I agree with her that it's very easy to confuse one with the other. Resisting against all odds, despite fatigue and the resounding cries of our bodies in the name of so-called success, sooner or later takes its toll. Resistance may seem admirable, but it's often a path to exhaustion and dissatisfaction.
Identifying when we need to take a break can be challenging, especially in such a demanding work environment. However, there are signs we shouldn't ignore. If you constantly feel fatigued, irritable, or unmotivated, your body and mind are likely asking for a break. It's also important to pay attention to the quality of your work; if you notice you're having trouble concentrating or making hasty decisions, it's a clear indication that it's time to stop. Listening to your body and recognizing these signs is the first step toward a healthy balance.
It's crucial to understand that taking a break doesn't mean throwing everything away. It's not about abandoning our responsibilities or setting aside our goals. Rather, it's about strategically and wisely seeking out and creating those moments to disconnect. Incorporating breaks into our daily routine can become a lifestyle that promotes balance. This can range from short breaks during the workday to dedicating a day a week to activities that nourish us and allow us to reconnect with ourselves. By doing so, we not only improve our personal well-being but also boost our productivity and creativity.
Before concluding this article, I'd like to invite you to reflect. Take a moment to write a list of everything you're currently dealing with. With humility and acceptance, decide to let go of what weighs you down, what you know no longer fits in your life. It is my prayer that God will grant you discernment and wisdom to see it, and the courage to let go.
In this fast-paced world, remembering the importance of slowing down is essential. Life is a journey, and each of us has the right to enjoy it to the fullest. So, the next time you feel the pressure to keep going without stopping, ask yourself: Is this the moment to get off the train? The answer could be the key to regaining your well-being and rediscovering joy in what you do.
The author is a public relations specialist for Mystiq developments, CEO and founder of Positive Refocus and Real Estate Balance, director of the RP Media Group, an integrative coach for personal development, and a motivational speaker certified by John Maxwell Leadership. She is also the director of the "Time To Grow" training program for real estate agents and the author of the books "Before Saying Yes" and "Time for Me.".
