Slow Is The New Busy
For much of my life, I believed that a packed schedule was the only path to success. Busy was a badge of honor, and hard work was all I knew. From the hours I spent perfecting my craft as a dancer to building my business, I thrived on the hustle. I loved what I did—the movement, the creativity, the teaching—and the independence that came with it. And for a long time, I thought that this relentless push was the only way to live a successful life.
But here's the truth: living like that is unsustainable.
For years, I was taught that "nothing worth having comes easy," so I pressed forward, constantly filling my days, trying to be everything to everyone. While I loved what I did, there was always an underlying current of self-worth tied to how productive I could be. It’s the way I was raised, the way society tells us to measure success: by our output, by how much we do, how many people praise our efforts.
And it worked… Sort of.
Yes, I achieved a lot. But I also burned out. Repeatedly. And even as I achieved more, the nagging feeling of "not enough" followed me. I got stuck in a cycle, a hamster wheel of chasing external validation, while never feeling completely fulfilled inside.
Slowing down is difficult. Letting go of the constant push is hard when you’ve built your identity around it. But after decades of moving at full speed, my body—my life—began to send me unmistakable signs. From physical injuries to chronic exhaustion, it was clear: I had to listen to my body and make space to rest. It wasn’t easy, but slowly, I started to shift.
And what I’ve realized is this: slowing down is not about doing less; it’s about doing things differently. It’s about rethinking what success really means and finding a balance that allows you to thrive without running yourself into the ground.
Slowing down doesn’t mean you’re giving up on ambition or your goals. It doesn’t mean you’re lazy or unproductive. It means you’re choosing to live a life of intention rather than reacting to the demands of a packed schedule. For me, slowing down has meant listening to my body, practicing self-compassion, and creating space for the things that truly matter—things that bring me joy, peace, and connection.
If you're someone who finds it hard to slow down, I understand. It’s not easy to let go of the belief that more is always better. But when we take the time to pause, reflect, and create space in our lives, we allow ourselves to reconnect with what truly nourishes us. And that’s where the real magic happens.
It’s a journey I’m on always - the journey is the destination. But I can say with certainty: slowing down has been one of the most transformative decisions I’ve made. I feel more grounded, more connected, and more aligned with who I really am.
Here are some tips for slowing down, inspired by my own journey. I still struggle to slow down sometimes, and like everyone else I am a work in progress. Be gentle with yourself, and remember to go slowly!
1. Prioritize What Truly Matters
Take time to identify what is most important to you. Instead of trying to do everything, focus on a few things that genuinely bring you meaning, joy, and fulfillment. Let go of the unnecessary tasks - and people - that drain your energy and attention.
2. Practice Mindful Scheduling
Be intentional with your time. Don’t fill your schedule with back-to-back commitments. Leave space between tasks and activities to allow yourself to breathe, reflect, and recharge.
3. Embrace the Power of "No"
Saying "no" can be difficult, but it’s essential for maintaining balance. You are not obligated to accept every invitation or take on every responsibility. Respect your limits and choose commitments that align with your priorities.
4. Create Time for Self-Care
Incorporate self-care into your day as a non-negotiable part of your life. Whether it’s a morning meditation, a short walk, or a moment of silence, self-care helps you slow down and reconnect with yourself.
5. Tune Into Your Body
Listen to your body’s signals. If you feel tired or stressed, it’s okay to rest. Avoid pushing through exhaustion. Regularly check in with yourself to assess how you’re feeling and adjust your pace accordingly.
6. Be Present in the Moment
Instead of constantly thinking about the next task, practice being fully present in whatever you’re doing. Whether you’re working, spending time with loved ones, or enjoying a hobby, give it your full attention.
7. Set Boundaries with Technology
Digital devices can add to the feeling of being constantly "on." Set boundaries around your use of technology—schedule breaks from screens, avoid checking emails at night, and resist the urge to scroll mindlessly through social media.
8. Reflect and Reevaluate Regularly
Schedule regular moments of reflection. Ask yourself: Are my current habits helping me feel balanced? Is there anything I need to change? Periodically reevaluating your choices helps ensure you stay aligned with your intention to slow down.
9. Accept That Slowing Down is a Process
Slowing down doesn’t happen overnight. It requires patience and a willingness to let go of old habits. Be kind to yourself as you navigate this change, and remember that it’s okay to progress gradually.
10. Find Joy in Simplicity
Often, we overlook the beauty of simple moments. Take time to enjoy the small things—savor your morning coffee, appreciate a sunset, or spend a quiet moment with a loved one. Finding joy in simplicity helps you slow down and stay connected to what truly matters.