We’re all busy. It may be work obligations, family matters, or academic pursuits—or a multitude of other factors—that are taking up our time, causing some stress, and possibly keeping us up at night. No one is immune. That’s why I want to bring particular attention to Charles Fred’s article, “Take Pause.” In it, he explains why intentionally deliberating before acting is a key leadership competency.

Although he speaks to leaders’ need to mentally call a time-out to combat stressors, we all would be wise to heed Fred’s advice. “A mindset of moving as fast as possible, compressing more into a day, and sleeping less is not working,” he writes. Thus, we must create a space between ourselves “and the persistent and perilous stimulus from a frenetic world.” The holidays and the end of the year may produce an added layer of stimuli and frenzy.

The crux of Fred’s argument is simple: Seek mental clarity, reset, and reduce stress. So, all together now—breathe in, breathe out.