Quick Spoon: The power of the pause, creating space to choose
When life and work feel busy, speed can become the default.
We move quickly from one conversation to the next, reacting, deciding, replying, and solving without much space in between.
In this final Quick Spoon from Ross’ conversation with Jessica Lee, we explore the value of something simple:
The pause.
A pause can create enough distance to notice what matters, respond with more intention, and choose how we want to show up.
It doesn’t need to be dramatic.
Sometimes it’s one breath.
Sometimes it’s one question.
Sometimes it’s a few seconds before replying.
Small pauses can create meaningful change.
What This Episode Explores
- Why constant speed can reduce clarity
- How pauses create better choices
- The link between awareness and behaviour
- A practical tool for leaders and teams
- How small moments can change outcomes
Key Idea
The pause creates space — and space creates choice.
Reflection
Where could you create a small pause today?
People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.
If you’re enjoying People Soup, hit follow so you don’t miss future episodes.
Visit Ross' Website.
Connect with Ross on LinkedIn
People Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian life
He's now also on Bluesky
The People Soup Website on CAPTIVATE
Transcript
[00:00:20] Ross: Hi there, and welcome to People Soup, Quick Spoon, real conversations about work leadership and being human grounded in behavioral [00:00:30] science. With practical ideas you can actually use. I'm Ross McIntosh and here's your quick spoon.
[:[00:00:59] Just [00:01:00] asking what matters here. How do I want to show up? What's my choice? And in that space, you give yourself [00:01:10] options. That's where change begins. So maybe just notice this week, where could you create a small pause? That's your quick [00:01:20] spoon. Until next time, take care.
