Slow Down: How to Be Successful by Hustling Slow and Consistently

In today’s fast-paced world, the idea of slowing down may seem counterintuitive. We’re constantly racing against the clock, trying to cram more into our already hectic schedules, and striving for maximum efficiency in everything we do. 

But what if I told you that sometimes, the key to achieving your goals and living a fulfilling life is by slowing down? It might sound paradoxical, but there’s wisdom in the old saying, “slow down to go faster.”

Let’s explore the concept of slowing down and how it can actually help you achieve your goals and find greater happiness and fulfillment in life.

The Hurried Lifestyle: A Recipe for Burnout

Many of us have fallen into the trap of the hurried lifestyle. We rush through our days, constantly multitasking, and pushing ourselves to the limit. While this may make us feel productive in the short term, it often leads to burnout, stress, and a sense of emptiness in the long run.

I now only take on things that bring me fulfillment and that I see myself doing for a long time with patience and care. Maybe not always perfect, but perfect enough to win the race.

One of my favorite stories that I have come to understand and appreciate is “The Hare and The Tortoise”. When the hare and tortoise enter a race the hare takes its time and gets distracted thinking that speed is no problem for him and he would definitely win the race. The tortoise with consistency, focus and grit ends up winning the race. 

1. Quality Over Quantity: When we’re constantly rushing, we often sacrifice the quality of our work and experiences. Whether it’s a rushed work project or a hasty meal, the end result is seldom as satisfying as when we take the time to do things right.

2. Health Consequences: Living in a state of perpetual rush can take a toll on our physical and mental health. It can lead to sleep deprivation, poor eating habits, and chronic stress, which, in turn, increase the risk of health problems.

3. Missed Opportunities: When we’re not present and always rushing, we may overlook valuable opportunities and fail to appreciate the beauty in the everyday moments. Life passes us by as we focus only on the destination, forgetting to enjoy the journey.

The Art of Slowing Down

Slowing down doesn’t mean being unproductive or lazy. It’s about being mindful, deliberate, and intentional in your actions. 

I kept rushing to do everything and trying to achieve everything as soon as I could. I found myself failing and getting distracted by shiny object syndrome…

I found myself struggling and not having a clear path so anything else that I thought would bring me success I would take on. I would buy another course, book, or start another project or multiple projects at the same time, giving me a feeling of false success. 

I realized that I had no clarity on what I really wanted and I kept struggling and getting frustrated with my lack of success. This also led to realizing that I had to have self discipline to be able to stick with something long term and be able to wait long enough to see the results of my hard work.

The journey is part of success. Is what you decided to take on. It’s what should be embraced and by not rushing it the clarity and answers will show up. 

Do it right and you do it once equals do it fast, do it rushed and you’ll do it twice equals it goes slow. 

The Benefits of Slowing Down

Slowing down has numerous benefits that can positively impact various aspects of your life:

1. Enhanced Creativity: When you slow down and let your mind wander, you often discover new ideas and perspectives that can fuel your creativity.

2. Improved Relationships: Taking the time to be present with your loved ones strengthens your relationships and fosters deeper connections.

3. Reduced Stress: Slowing down reduces stress and anxiety, allowing you to approach challenges with a clearer mind. 

Stress it’s not always a bad thing. It’s a sign of the need to improve or change something in our life. 

Step back, don’t let it get to you (I know not as easy as it sounds) and move one step at a time. Eliminate the things that bring the least benefit to your life. It will take a load off of you.

4. Increased Productivity: Paradoxically, by focusing on quality and prioritizing what truly matters, you become more productive in the long run.

5. Greater Life Satisfaction: By savoring life’s moments and finding joy in the little things, you’ll experience greater overall life satisfaction.

In a world that glorifies speed and efficiency, it’s essential to recognize the value of slowing down. By taking a step back, focusing on the present moment, and being intentional in our actions, we can achieve more, reduce stress, and lead happier, more fulfilling lives.

It requires disciplined pacing to get the small things right and to not be stopped. Like a powerful force moving through anything or around everything that gets in its way, because nothing will stop a clear headed and determined force from achieving their goal.