On a recent early morning cycle ride, rushing to an appointment, I witnessed the ‘lollipop parents’ in action—as they stepped in front of me to help the school kids cross the road. Initially a little anxious as the clock ticked by, this simple moment triggered an unexpected realization about the power of a single word—STOP—and how it can have a positive impact on our daily lives.
I already had a busy head from an already busy and scattered week, but it seems there is always room for another creative thought. Just imagine if we all had one—our own personal 'lollipop hero'? In the hustle and bustle of our lives, a gentle, yet assertive figure simply stepping into our noisy, busy minds, holding up their hand, and gently prompting us with their STOP sign, encouraging us to pause and take a moment.
Why should I STOP when I need to GO?
It's easy for us all to get trapped in our own thoughts or busy schedules — quickly losing our way and
focus. But rather than stop, we tirelessly carry on pushing ourselves forward. We’ve all been there, I
know I have — even with the best intentions — the feelings of frustration, tiredness, overwhelm, and not getting through that to-do list is how our day ends. Not a positive feeling for any of us. But imagine the impact of our day if we simply said ‘STOP!’ and our lollipop hero stepped forth! A short burst of a minute or two, or a slightly longer pause, would offer up space to gain perspectives, clarity, and to prioritize what truly matters, making the steps forward more clear and impactful.
So, I wondered how my lollipop hero would look. Of course, it goes without saying that I did a quick
doodle of my ‘Lollipop hero’. Imagining them; how they look, what they wear, and what they would
say—is a powerful way to press the pause button. Calling them into action when you say the word ‘STOP’ creates an invisible support. Knowing that you are not alone with your ‘Lollipop hero' by your side. Sounds a bit off the wall, but I promise it works!
Mine is a fun-loving, energetic older woman who approaches life with a no-nonsense, laid-back attitude. Her years of experience have granted her the beautiful gift of retrospection, meaning that she knows what truly matters and recognizes that taking moments to slow down and pause is the key to navigating a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I wonder what your ‘Lollipop hero’ would look like. Go on, give it a go! It’s fun to create your own! Maybe there is a book or film character that pops to mind, or even someone you know. Or doodle or write about your own ‘lollipop hero’. Think about their age, their personality, how they look, dress, and sound. Ask yourself – what would it take for me to ‘STOP.’ Gentle encouragement or a simple straightforward command?
But if we STOP then what next?
There are good ways to stop and less effective ways. Stopping isn’t an invitation to make your engage your mind in another busy activity e.g. picking up your phone, checking your email, or going to the
supermarket. Use your pause well to truly benefit from your time-out. Having a cuppa is always good,
even better is taking the time to enjoy it and notice how it tastes. Mindfulness is perfect for short
minute pauses — simply closing your eyes, focusing on your breathing, a sound that you can hear,
noticing how your feet feel when you walk around, or just noticing how it feels to sit for 1 minute are
all good ways to pause. And if you have a little longer, then go outside and walk, even for 10 minutes.
So next time you find yourself rushing through chaos and overwhelmed by a constant flow of thoughts, tasks, and responsibilities say ‘STOP!’ Call up your ‘lollipop hero’ to pause, and unravel your thoughts before you move on.
Do you find yourself yearning for your 'lollipop hero'? Can you imagine how stopping can give you the space you need to get going? Have you ever wondered how it would feel to just sit down and share
your story with someone else? I am Annie Peutrell, an accredited personal coach, and I invite you to
kick off your shoes and join me on The Serious Sofa for a free 30-minute chat.
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