Hurry, hurry, busy, busy...

...isn't the best way to get things done

Recently I’ve found myself running faster and faster all the time, urged on by the pervasive sense of urgency that modern western society exudes. I have a full calendar and a long to-do list, so of course I need to be running full-steam all the time, right?

In a hurry to complete each task and get on to the next one. In a hurry to get as many things done each day as possible.

I even found myself eating my meals faster, not stopping to savor the food, just wanting to get it done so I could move on to the next thing.

Then one day I just couldn’t take it anymore. This isn’t the speed we’re meant for - at least, it’s not the speed I’m meant for.

So I slowed down on purpose.

Took my time with each task, allowing myself to do it at whatever speed seemed appropriate. Stopped in between tasks to rest, to chat with others, to step outside and look up at the sky. Purposely chose to “waste time” at several points each day.

I don’t feel nearly as harried and harassed now. My thoughts are clearer. I’m sleeping better.

But the wildest thing is, I’m actually getting more done.

Maybe it’s that I’m able to think clearly and give each activity the focus it deserves. I’m no longer thinking about the next three things on the list while doing the first thing on the list.

I have to wonder if we’ve done ourselves a terrible disservice by trying to increase the speed of life. Not just in terms of our own pleasure and satisfaction - that much is pretty obvious - but also in terms of productivity.

Going faster doesn’t always equal getting more done. So I’m going to slow down. How about you?