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We live in a fast-paced world that seems to be getting faster each year. While technology has helped us accomplish some things more efficiently, it certainly hasn’t slowed our pace down. It’s quite the opposite. Many people enjoy this fast-paced, action-packed world, but even the most ardent supporters could benefit from slowing down once in a while. It’s not until we slow down that we can notice just how far we have come. If you think you would benefit from slowing down in life, consider these nine tips.
- Slowing Down is a Choice
It would help if you acknowledged that slowing down is a choice. Recognizing this is important because it helps you realize that you don’t have to bounce along at breakneck speed with the rest of the world. You have the control to step back and slow down. It’s your choice to make.
- Say “No” A Lot More
The best way to slow down is to say “no” more often. You don’t always have to do that favor or take on extra responsibilities. If you don’t have the time, don’t be afraid to say no to other people’s demands for your time.
- Do Less
You can accomplish just as much as you currently are by doing less if you make sure you spend most of your active time on the things that matter most. Focus on the things in your life that you really need to do, and let go (or outsource) the rest.
- Disconnect
Smartphones and wireless internet are both life-changing developments in our world. Of course, that doesn’t mean you have to be using them 24 hours a day. Don’t be afraid to put your phone or device down, and immerse yourself in the world directly in front of you.
- Make More Time for Nature
Spending time in nature is one of the best ways to ground yourself. Not all of us have access to remote mountain trails, but even a stroll in your local park can do wonders. Regularly spending time in the great outdoors is a wonderful way to slow down.
- Find Simple Pleasures
So many of us seem to spend our time mindlessly working while waiting for the big events in our life. Not everything you celebrate or enjoy needs to be a big event, though. Learn to take more pleasure in the small daily things. Don’t choke back your coffee as fast as possible in the morning; sit down and truly savor it.
- Focus on Your Breathing
When is the last time you just sat there and focused on your breathing? This might not seem groundbreaking, but it’s a powerful activity that helps ground you at the moment. If you ever feel like things are racing and spinning around you out of your control, take some time to clear your mind and focus on your breathing.
- Stick to Single-Tasking
Focusing on one task at a time is a great way to slow your pace down. Instead of rushing to finish multiple tasks, you can take your time and do one well. An added benefit is that single-tasking is often more efficient than multi-tasking anyways.
- Who Are You Competing With?
What imaginary race are you running, and who are your competitors? So often, our fast pace is in response to us competing with a sibling, coworker, neighbor, or that guy we all hated in high school. If you commit to worrying less about other people and stop comparing yourself, you will naturally slow your pace.
