On speed
In modern life, we seem to rush through everything. Everyone is busy and has someplace to be.
Startup culture emphasizes speed above all else, probably for good reason. The survival of a startup depends on how quickly it can achieve success relative to its competitors.
But when we become too focused on the need for speed, we sacrifice something more fundamental. Prioritizing speed above all else often comes at the expense of attention quality. We struggle to stay present in the moment and instead find ourselves preoccupied with what's coming next. Impatience takes hold, and we seek instant gratification, which can be detrimental to our mental health and overall well-being. Attempting to keep up with the fast-paced world frequently leads to more irritability, anxiety, and stress.
Contrary to popular belief, slowness is not laziness and has many benefits. When we slow down, we give ourselves time to reflect and be more intentional about our actions. When we lose the need for instant gratification, we can be more aware and appreciative of the things around us. We can develop deeper, more meaningful relationships. Slowing down enables us to truly experience things and savor every experience.
As a nomad who has lived in several cities and towns over the past two years, I’ve come to recognize the bubble I was previously living in. This realization may not be particularly profound, but it’s one of those things that you don't fully grasp until you experience it. Prior to my travels, I had only lived in Mumbai, New York, and San Francisco - some of the biggest cities in the world. Experiencing other places and lifestyles made it clear that there are many ways to live well, and that your identity doesn’t need to be tied to any particular location.
Every city, town, or place has its own pace. If you can, find one that matches yours and spend as much time as you can there. For my current season of life, that place is Miami. It has a great balance of vibrant energy and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a city that values taking time to enjoy life, while still being productive if you want to be.
It's important to remember that finding the right pace in life is a personal journey. What works for one person may not work for another. It's okay to slow down, take a break, and enjoy the moment. It’s also okay to sprint, within reason, if that's what you really want. The key is to be intentional about your choices rather than operating on autopilot.