When Slowing Down Becomes the Work | Jen Sacks

When was the last time you really slowed down?In this conversation, Dawn sits down with Jen Sacks, host of Small Things, Big Life, to explore what it really means to pause, let go, and trust the messy middle. After nearly 20 years in the federal workforce, Jen is navigating a new season—learning how to rest without guilt, create new routines, and embrace the beauty of uncertainty.Together, they unpack the tension between stillness and productivity, the joy that comes from small steps, and how transitions can become sacred opportunities for mending and healing. This episode is a gentle reminder that slowing down isn’t a sign of stopping—it’s how we find our way forward.Guest InfoWebsite: https://www.smallthingsbig.life/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576508242635Instagram: @small.things.big.life (https://www.instagram.com/small.things.big.life/)LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-sacks💬 Key Quotes“You have to make sure you’re focused on your health, because once you fill your cup, then you can give a little bit more.” – Jen Sacks“If you can strip away the titles and just see people as human beings, you’ll have more compassion.” – Jen Sacks“Other people are not a means to an end; we’re all in this together.” – Dawn Hunter“The world can be on fire, and we can still live joyful, connected lives.” – Dawn Hunter “Healing sometimes looks like mending the pieces you didn’t even know were cracked.” – Jen Sacks📂 Section Markers01:16 Section 1: The Power of Pause Amid Transition27:25 Section 2: Being Better Leaders and Better Humans 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Navigating Transitions and Emotions03:27 The Importance of Self-Care and Mindfulness06:07 Finding Balance in Life and Work08:57 The Challenge of Productivity and Rest11:36 Creating Structure in a Flexible Life14:35 Embracing Imperfection and Messiness30:27 Navigating Household Dynamics33:20 Understanding Personal Preferences in Relationships35:29 The Importance of Communication in Relationships38:07 Leadership and Team Dynamics40:52 The Human Element in Leadership43:29 Creating Joyful Connections44:54 Intentional Pauses for Personal Growth Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show 📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife