Be Still

An art and proven science to taking a moment can redefine the new year for your team.

If bucket lists and better habits are on the New Year's agenda, add this book to your must read or listen pile: “The Art of Stillness” by Pico Iyer. 

If we make fast-lane decisions and move through life without pressing pause, the collateral damage is burnout on all levels. Pico Iyer writes, “In an age of speed, nothing could be more invigorating than going slow. In an age of distraction, nothing can feel more luxurious than paying attention. And in an age of constant movement, nothing is more urgent than sitting still.”

We live in an age of constant distraction. Notifications never stop. Information is endless. Many of us feel perpetually “on,” reacting to responsibilities at work, home, and in the community. Not to mention, we’re navigating an increasingly complex and costly healthcare system. 

As we enter a new year, the idea of stillness — and reality that it’s an art — is especially relevant. 

Many of us arrive in January worn down from the holidays, year-end deadlines, and a healthcare system that is often difficult to navigate. Iyer describes it well: “More and more of us feel like emergency room physicians, permanently on call, expected to heal ourselves but unable to find the prescription for all the clutter on our desks.”

When everything feels urgent, slowing down feels like mission impossible. ​​​​​​But stillness helps us see, and here’s how this can change behaviors at work and home.  
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A New Urgent Care 

New Year's means a reset, or at least good intentions. We reconsider routines, expectations, and responsibilities with a self-induced pressure to simplify and “find balance.” But what’s missing is mental space. What really happens is, we end up making important decisions about our time, health, and priorities while juggling busy schedules, financial pressures, and limited emotional bandwidth.

When everything feels rushed or overwhelming, our responses tend to be reactive. We default to urgent care or the ER instead of reaching out to trusted providers. We postpone important choices and miss opportunities for connection that could guide us toward better outcomes.

Stillness isn’t about disengaging from life. It’s about slowing down long enough to ask questions and notice what we need. This way, we can make decisions that support our long-term wellbeing rather than just getting through the diagnosis, decision, or day. 

Stillness is also about reconnecting. Health is not a solo act. Wellbeing doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s built through relationships with trusted providers who listen, supportive coworkers, family members, and our communities. When those connections are strong, we’re more likely to make choices that support long-term health rather than reacting in crisis.

As employers, we can help create a sense of stillness by fostering awareness and connection. Offering guidance, wellness programs, and encouraging open conversations with peer advocates in your workplace can go a long way. With information and support, we can find some breathing room to pause and make healthy choices. ​​​​​​

A New Well-Check 

Treat this new year as an annual checkup. Challenge yourself to a window of stepping away from the constant pings, status updates, and chats to evaluate what’s working and what isn’t.

Iyer writes that going nowhere isn’t about turning your back on the world. It’s about stepping away now and then so that you can see the world more clearly and appreciate it. Reflection allows us to recognize where adjustments are needed to better support health and balance.

Let’s do this together at Health Action Council’s In-Value-Able Conference, Feb. 3-4, 2026. You’ll hear from nationally recognized leaders and peers. Participate in focused breakouts and honest conversations. 

In the meantime, let us know: How can we help you make your benefits a true benefit — one your employees can afford to count on when it matters most?