Any chance you have to sit back and be the one watching is great.

In the words of Mats Sundin, "Any chance you have to sit back and be the one watching is great," we are invited to consider the value of perspective, of taking a moment to pause, and of stepping back from the hustle and bustle of life to observe. In a world that often demands action and constant movement, Sundin’s reflection highlights a deep and often overlooked truth: there is power in simply observing, in learning from the sidelines, and in allowing ourselves the space to reflect before we engage. It is a sentiment that speaks to the importance of mindfulness and the ability to find wisdom in both action and inaction.

In ancient times, the idea of reflection and perspective was revered. The Stoic philosophers, such as Seneca and Marcus Aurelius, often emphasized the importance of stepping back from the chaos of life to gain a clearer view of the whole picture. For the Stoics, it was in moments of pause and reflection that one could gain true wisdom, seeing life not as a series of isolated events but as a whole, interconnected tapestry. To “sit back and watch” was, for them, a way to understand life’s events more deeply, to observe the ebb and flow of human nature, and to find the clarity needed to make better decisions in the future. Sundin’s words echo this ancient wisdom: that sometimes, to act with wisdom, one must first take the time to simply observe.

Consider the ancient Greeks, who placed great value on the role of the spectator. In their theaters, the audience was given not just a seat but a role in the process of reflection. The plays of Sophocles and Euripides were not simply entertainment; they were lessons in human nature, designed to make the spectators think deeply about their own lives and choices. The tragedies often showed the consequences of impulsivity and the lack of reflection, while the comedies provided a mirror to society, inviting the audience to reflect on their own actions. Much like sitting back and observing, the role of the spectator in these ancient performances was vital—giving them the space to think, learn, and see the world from a new angle.

Sundin’s quote also brings to mind the ancient warrior’s need for reflection between battles. Sun Tzu, the legendary strategist, spoke often of the importance of understanding one’s environment before taking action. In The Art of War, Sun Tzu teaches that true victory is not about relentless action, but about choosing the right moments to engage and the right moments to withdraw. This idea of taking a step back, of sitting back and observing, is central to the concept of strategic thinking. By understanding the landscape—whether it’s in battle, in sports, or in life—we can make better decisions, act with more precision, and ultimately achieve greater success. Sundin’s reflection is akin to this strategic mindset, recognizing that sometimes, the most effective action comes from observing before moving.

The value of observation is not merely about passivity but about awareness. In the natural world, we see how animals, such as lions, often wait patiently before striking their prey, learning from the environment before making their move. This patience, this quiet observation, allows them to understand their surroundings, to see patterns, and to strike at the most opportune moment. The same applies to humans: by stepping back and watching, we gain the clarity needed to make more thoughtful, deliberate decisions. Sundin teaches us that this period of observation is not a waste of time; it is a necessary part of the process of growth and strategy.

The lesson in Sundin’s quote is clear: take time to observe. In a world that often values constant action and busyness, we must remember the importance of pausing—of taking the opportunity to step back, gain perspective, and reflect before jumping into the fray. Whether in our careers, relationships, or personal pursuits, sometimes the wisest choice is not to act immediately, but to give ourselves the space to observe, reflect, and understand the full scope of what is at stake. Just as Mats Sundin suggests, taking time to simply watch can be an essential part of strategic decision-making and personal growth.

In our own lives, we can incorporate this wisdom by making conscious efforts to pause, whether it’s in moments of stress, conflict, or even opportunity. By stepping back and allowing ourselves time to reflect, we can make better-informed decisions, avoid unnecessary mistakes, and approach life’s challenges with greater clarity. Let us remember that true strength does not always lie in relentless action, but in knowing when to pause and learn. Whether as a leader, a parent, a professional, or simply as individuals seeking to navigate the complexities of life, the ability to observe is just as important as the ability to act.