The Joy of Doing Things Slowly
- Ravi Kohli
- May 13
- 2 min read
In a world obsessed with speed, doing things slowly feels almost wrong. We're constantly encouraged to move faster, work harder, scroll quicker, and respond instantly. But what if slowing down—even just a little—could make life more meaningful?
There’s a quiet joy in slowing the pace. It’s not about being lazy or unproductive. It’s about paying attention, being present, and actually feeling what you're doing.
Slowness Helps You Notice What You Miss
When you're rushing, everything blurs. You skip details, ignore feelings, and miss the subtle beauty of the moment. But slow down a bit—whether it’s sipping your chai, walking to the store, or reading a page—and suddenly things start to feel clearer.
You notice the texture of the day: the sound of rain, the weight of silence, the look on someone’s face. These little things add up. They make a day memorable.
Better Focus, Better Work
Doing something slowly doesn’t mean doing it poorly. In fact, it usually means doing it better. When you're not in a hurry, you tend to make fewer mistakes. You think more clearly. You’re not just trying to finish something—you’re trying to understand it.
This can apply to cooking, studying, working, or even just cleaning your room. Doing it slowly gives it care. And that care shows in the outcome.
It Reduces Stress Without You Noticing
Moving fast all the time puts your body and brain in a constant state of alertness. It’s tiring, even if you don’t realise it. But when you slow down, you give yourself permission to breathe.
There’s less pressure, fewer mental shortcuts, and more calm. Over time, your mind starts to feel lighter, and your mood begins to shift.
You Connect More With People
Conversations become better when you’re not rushing to reply. Relationships grow stronger when you give people your time without glancing at your phone. Even shared silence becomes more comforting when neither person is in a hurry to move on.
Doing things slowly often means you’re truly there—with someone, not just around them.
It Doesn’t Have to Be All or Nothing
Slowing down doesn’t mean quitting your job or meditating for hours. It can be small moments. Taking a slower walk. Eating without distractions. Writing instead of typing. Talking to someone without checking your notifications.
Even one slow moment in a fast day can help you reset.
Final Words
Life doesn’t have to be a race. There’s no prize for rushing through it. Sometimes, the most peaceful, meaningful parts of our day are the ones we allow to move slowly.
So go ahead—walk slower, think deeper, breathe easier. In a world chasing speed, choosing slowness is a quiet kind of rebellion. And sometimes, it’s the best thing you can do for yourself.
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