Go Slow to Go Fast.

The Unexpected Strategy That Changed Everything

We’ve been taught to hustle. To move fast. Respond faster.

Keep up or fall behind.

But here’s the truth I learned the hard way; 

*** going slow is actually how you go fast   ***

We’re living in a state of constant urgency.

It’s like we’re always one step behind, trying to catch up. We bounce from task to task, checking boxes, answering messages, booking the next meeting before the current one’s even wrapped.

At home, it’s much the same. We rush the kids to school, sports, and appointments. We shove dinner in between homework and showers, half-listen to conversations while scrolling, and try to squeeze in some real connection wherever it’ll fit.

But here’s the truth, this constant rushing isn’t just exhausting, it’s hurting our brain health. It’s quietly stripping away our attention, our presence, and our ability to be intentional.

And without those things, we’re not actually moving forward. We’re just spinning.

We’re not living, we’re existing.

How Slowing Down Started to Speed Things Up

This lesson hit me in the pool, of all places. I had signed up for swim coaching while training for a triathlon. My goal was clear: swim faster. So naturally, I pushed. I kicked harder. I pulled stronger. I gave it everything I had. 

And… I got nowhere.

My pace didn’t improve, and I was exhausted after a few laps.

Then my coach said something that stopped me in my tracks: 

“You’re working too hard. Slow down. Pay attention to your form.”

It felt backwards. But I listened. 

I started focusing on each movement. My breathing. My alignment. My reach. I zoomed in on the tiny details that I had previously ignored in my rush to get through it. It was frustrating at first. I felt like a sloth. Like I would sink.

Surprisingly to me, over time, something shifted. My swimming became smoother. More efficient.

I wasn’t flailing anymore, I was gliding. I felt in control. Present.

And the wildest part? My pace got faster.

Why this matters more than ever in business and life

What happened in that pool happens everywhere. In our work. Our homes. Our relationships.

Our communication.

We try to move faster by doing more, thinking harder, pushing ourselves past our limits. But in reality, we’re skipping over the small things, the ones that actually create results.

When we slow down, we give our brain a chance to focus. We allow for clarity, precision, and presence.

And that changes everything.

In business, slowing down helps us become better listeners, better problem-solvers, and more effective leaders. In relationships, it helps us respond with care instead of reacting out of stress. At home, it helps us see the moments we’d usually rush past and connect more deeply with the people we love.

Slowing down isn't laziness, it allows for the gift of intentionality.

And intention is a brain health powerhouse!

What the brain needs most: Attention and Intention

Here’s the science behind it.

Our brains are built for focus, but they’re not designed for constant pressure. When we rush all the time, we activate our stress response system. This kicks our nervous system into fight-or-flight mode, which reduces our ability to think clearly, make good decisions, and regulate our emotions.

But when we slow down we give our brain a break. We create space for the prefrontal cortex (the part of the brain responsible for planning, focus, and executive function) to kick in.

Attention helps your brain process information more effectively.

Intention tells your brain what to prioritize.

Together, they form the foundation for brain health, emotional regulation, and performance.

This is true whether you’re managing a team, raising a family, or building a business.

The real power of going slow

Since that swim training, I’ve started applying this idea everywhere. Before I write something, I pause and check in. Before responding to a team member or client, I breathe and reflect. Before jumping into problem-solving mode at home, I slow myself down and listen.

It’s not always easy. Our culture makes us feel like slowing down is falling behind. But its important to know, the opposite is true.

• Slowing down gives you access to better ideas.

• It strengthens your memory.

• It helps you show up more fully, for your team, your family, and yourself.

So let’s look at some strategies you can use right now.

• At work: Don’t just check tasks off a list. Start your day with intention. What matters most? What will move things forward with purpose?

• With your team or business: Slow your meetings down. Listen more. Speak with clarity. Focus on relationships, not just output.

• At home: Put your phone down. Make eye contact. Really hear your loved ones. These small shifts create trust and connection.

For your brain: Create moments of pause during your day, before you eat, before you answer, before you act. Your brain will thank you with clearer thinking and more energy.

Slowing down has become one of my greatest tools for brain health, for business, and for life.

It’s not about doing less. It’s about doing what matters most, with care. With focus. 

With presence.

So next time you're tempted to rush through your to-do list, your meeting, or your child’s story at dinner, try something different.

Go slow.

Let your attention lead.

Let your intention guide.

You’ll be amazed at how far you go and how much lighter the journey feels.