The Power of Slowing Down

If you are like me, you start every day with a list.? You try to keep it short and doable, but quickly, it fills with everything that MUST get done today, what you didn’t get to yesterday, and everything that is on your radar for those to come. ?

Instead of being an essential productivity tool, the list quickly swells out of control, and with it, our ability to focus.

The secret hack: better results lie in slowing down. It took me a long time to learn this. As I help other high performers and organizations, I have developed a list of ways to circumvent the productivity paradox.

Let’s explore why slowing down is essential and how it can propel us forward.

1. The Power of Pausing: Why Rest Isn’t a Waste of Time

Neuroscience reveals that breaks improve focus, creativity, and decision-making. Just like muscles need rest after intense exercise, our minds require downtime to process information, make connections, and perform optimally.

In Practice:

Try implementing the Pomodoro technique, which involves working for 25-minute focused sessions followed by a 5-minute break. This structure helps maintain energy and prevent burnout.

2. Clarity Before Action: Avoiding Costly Mistakes

Slowing down allows us to assess the situation, think strategically, and align efforts with goals. In business, it’s common to see teams that start fast only to realize midway that they need to backtrack due to poor preparation.

In Practice:

Before starting a project, take time to create a roadmap. Ask: What are the top priorities? What obstacles might we face? This reflection will save time in the long run.

3. Quality Over Quantity: Doing More With Less

We often believe that doing more is better, but it's not.? Quantity without quality can dilute the impact. Slowing down encourages us to be selective about tasks, focusing only on high-value activities. It’s about working smarter, not harder.

In Practice:

Use the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize tasks:

????????????????? ??????????????? Urgent & Important: Do it now

????????????????? ??????????????? Important, Not Urgent: Schedule it

????????????????? ??????????????? Urgent, Not Important: Delegate it

????????????????? ??????????????? Not Urgent, Not Important: Drop it

4. Building Resilience: Managing Stress Effectively

Slowing down provides the mental space to reflect and recharge, enhancing long-term resilience. In these quiet moments, we can reconnect with our “why”—the deeper purpose behind our work.

In Practice:

Incorporate mindfulness practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or journaling. Just five minutes a day can shift your mindset from reactive to reflective.

5. Stronger Relationships: Presence Beats Speed

In both personal and professional life, meaningful relationships require presence. We can engage deeply in conversations, listen actively, and build trust when we slow down. Speeding through interactions, on the other hand, risks misunderstandings and weak connections.

In Practice:

When communicating with a colleague or loved one, limit distractions and give them your full attention. Being fully present sends a powerful message of respect and care.

Slowing Down to Accelerate Success

The paradox of “slowing down to go fast” reminds us that speed without intention can lead to inefficiency. When we slow down, we create space for clarity, focus, and meaningful work, which ultimately helps us move faster toward our goals. Whether in your career, relationships, or personal life, try taking your foot off the gas—and notice how you achieve more by doing less.

What small changes can you make today to slow down—and go fast?