Many years ago, Coca-Cola ran a brilliant advertising campaign about “The Pause That Refreshes”. They were on to something. Pauses refresh us because they allow us to stop, refocus, and rest.

The older I get, the more I’ve intentionally added pauses to my day. Some pauses are only a few minutes long; others are hours. It may be a walk to a faraway copier at work instead of the one in my department. Or driving an alternate route home. Or a day at the beach. The idea is to relax and rest by changing my thoughts from what stresses me to what refreshes me.

Rest refreshes us. And I rest best by doing nothing. I recently read a little book by Sandy Gingras called How to Live at the Beach. I love this light-hearted, five-minute read. It’s a clue that helps conjure up images of the mentality we have when we’re at the beach—and why we need to transport this beach mentality to our non-beach lives.

My son, his wife, and my grandson live near the beach in Santa Barbara, California. Next to Hawaii, it's one of the most beautiful places in the United States. When I head to the ocean with them, I'm awed by the benefits of the beach. For me, a day at the beach epitomizes (成为缩影) the discipline of doing nothing. It’s a pause. It’s also an example of a simpler life. I’m learning how to bring a beach mentality, and all its benefits, back home with me. A beach mentality slows me down, allows me to think over only what’s in front of me and allows me to fully appreciate what surrounds me in my nine-to-five world.

During the time of “country closure”, I’ve noticed what I typically fail to notice. Who says doing nothing is boring? Doing nothing calms and refuels me.

I’ve realized that by pausing more, I’ve seen more, listened more, heard more, and felt more. Yet, pausing is a discipline all its own. By developing the discipline of doing nothing, I’ve learned that a life of clarity, simplicity, and rest awaits.

Navigating (航行) the Transition to Adulthood

The teenage years are a transformative period of life, a time when you start the journey from childhood to adulthood. It’s a period filled with self-discovery, challenges, and personal growth.

【小题1】: One of the initial challenges during adolescence is wrestling with your identity. Questions about who you are and what you stand for are common. These inquiries of self-discovery can lead to changes in friendships, interests, and even your goals.

Academic and Life Skills: As high school students, you’re dealing with academic pressures, extracurricular activities, and social relationships. 【小题2】. But it’s an opportunity to develop essential life skills.

The Role of Friendships: Friendships play a significant role in your teenage years. 【小题3】. It’s essential to recognize the value of healthy relationships. Surround yourself with friends who uplift and respect you, and be a supportive friend in return.

Decision-Making Challenges: Decision-making becomes more crucial during this period of life. From academic choices to personal values, your decisions shape your future. 【小题4】.

Self-Care and Mental Health: Self-care and mental health are vital for teenage growth. During this period, adolescence brings significant pressure. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.

The path to adulthood is winding, with both successes and failures. Embrace each moment, savor the journey, and recognize that growth often comes from facing and overcoming challenges. As you navigate your teenage years, remember that you have the strength to thrive and discover your unique place in the world. 【小题5】.