Not long ago, I wrote about Br. David Steindl Rast’s 3-step process for cultivating more gratitude in our lives. The first of the 3 steps is “Stop!” My sense of what he is inviting us to do is to get still and shift our focus away from the chattering mind. And there’s no better way to access stillness than through silence.
In my coaching practice I’ve come to appreciate that most driven, successful individuals have difficulty with silence. Silence can feel awkward—even unsettling. We fill every pause with music, conversation, or our own thoughts.
But in the stillness beneath the noise, something profound waits for us. Silence allows us to access our True Self.
It’s in silence that we tap into our deepest wisdom. It’s in silence that life energy (what some traditions call shakti) can be felt, unfiltered by the mind’s chatter.
How Silence Supports The 3 Life Questions
- Living Authentically — In silence, you meet yourself without roles, stories, or distractions. You remember who you are beyond your thoughts.
- Cultivating Meaningful Relationships — When you’re comfortable with silence, you become a better listener—more present, less reactive, more compassionate.
- Making the World a Little Better — Silence nurtures clarity. And clear, calm minds tend to bring more kindness and wisdom into the world.
Simple Ways to Invite Silence
- Start Small — Just 3–5 minutes of quiet each morning can shift your whole day.
- Disconnect to Reconnect — Take a short walk without your phone or music. Let nature’s quiet speak.
- End the Day in Stillness — Before sleep, sit for a few breaths in silence. Let the noise settle.
Your Challenge This Week:
This week, gift yourself five minutes of silence each day. No phone, no distractions—just you and your breath. Pay attention to what the silence says to you. Listen deeply.
You will hear may amaze you.