Pressing Pause, On Purpose
How I’m stabilizing my energy, staying aligned, and letting this season be quieter.
I didn’t get this up yesterday, and instead of spiraling about that, I’m taking it as information. My cup is very full right now, with good things, meaningful things! It’s just that there are so very, very, many of them...
So this week’s self-care is less about adding and more about stabilizing.
Here are the three practices I’m leaning on…
Strengthening my personal habits (with some new-to-me tools).
I’m working on reinforcing the basics using a few techniques that are new for me, small shifts, different entry points, a wee bit of habit stacking. Nothing flashy.
I’m noticing that even subtle changes can make familiar habits feel more supportive instead of obligatory, which is exactly what I need right now. Mostly, I’m focused on things that give me energy: taking my vitamins, maintaining my diet, getting outside every day for a walk, and doing my darndest to sleep.
We’ll throw being mindful of my media consumption in there, too. There is just so much happening, and it is impossible to take it all in without overloading.
Friendly and loving reminder that it is okay to put the phone down and nope out of the news cycle for a bit if you need to.
Two of my favorite sources for news are Tangle News and 1440 - both have free versions that come right to your inbox. Together, I think they make a great combo.
Working through Make Miracles in 40 Days by Melodie Beattie.
I’ve done one full round of this book before, and it was deeply impactful. So much so that something I would genuinely consider a miracle happened during that time. It’s kind of personal and relates strongly to one of my kids, so I know you’ll understand that I don’t share what specifically it was.
I’m moving through the process again slowly and intentionally. There’s something grounding about returning to a practice that once met you exactly where you were, and seeing what it offers you now.
Here’s the book link, if you’re curious.
And finally, pressing pause — on purpose.
This one is the biggie…
I’m currently in a temporary contract role with a company doing truly meaningful work in the autism and disability space. I can’t share details due to an NDA, but I can say the work aligns closely with my values and the kind of impact I care about making. I truly hope and deeply believe it will benefit all US-based parents of autistic kids in the near future.
At the same time, the legislative session has started here in Idaho. My advocacy work with Fair Care Idaho has ramped up significantly.
Between that, family life, and the coaching work that keeps the lights on, my time and energy are being used very intentionally right now. Because of that, this space will be a bit quieter over the next couple of months.
I’ll pop in periodically as time and energy allow while I adjust to the new flow. But if things are quieter than usual, please know it’s intentional and temporary.
Nothing is wrong, just full. I know you know how that goes. 💜
On a proud note: my article with Rewire News Group was recently published, and I’m really glad to see that work out in the world. It focuses on the situation here in Idaho, but I’m sure caregiver shortages affect you wherever you live (and who among us really has all the support we need for our kids these days).
And just to be clear, I am still taking coaching clients!
If you’re looking for support, the best way to reach me is by emailing me at karen@karenkossow.com .
Thank you for being here, for your patience, and for walking alongside me through seasons that are sometimes quieter but still deeply intentional.
Be back soon!