As the classic Simon & Garfunkel’s 59th Street Bridge Song goes, “Slow down, you move too fast, you’ve got to make the morning last.” This timeless melody urges us to reflect on the pace at which we live our lives.
Some people perpetually race through life, while others are prone to dilly-dallying. It’s worth checking your speedometer and considering your pace. We need different speeds at different times, each serving its purpose. No single speed fits all situations.
What phase of life are you in? Does the phase dictate the speed at which you should be moving at?
In our 20s, there is so much time ahead and so much to explore. By our 30s and 40s, we’re well into our lives and the commitments often dictate our speed. Our 50s and 60s are more about transition – we still get up to speed when we want to but we’re less likely to choose that pace – at least not for extended periods. My friends and family members in their 70s and 80s tell me they don’t miss high-speed adrenaline but rather appreciate taking a leisurely pace.
I’ve always been a fast thinker and doer. I finished tests early, rushed through life stages, and sprinted through museums. As the youngest of three sisters spaced nearly seven and 12 years apart, I wanted to keep up with all the exciting things they were doing!
Savor the Pace
Throughout my adult life, however, I’ve learned to pause in the moment. It’s a glorious ability to slow down, observe, be present, feel, rest, and reflect. I choose this pace more and more.
At the start of the year, several podcasts I listen to discussed setting an intention or designating a word for the year. Without hesitation – notice I did that quickly, too – the word that quickly popped into my head was savor. I’m ready and eager to savor life.
Savoring life means slowing down, taking more pauses throughout the day, and giving things time. It means not rushing. This isn’t natural for me, so it takes effort, but it’s worth it.
Choose Your Speed
What’s your natural speed? Does it always serve you well? Are there speeds that feel comfortable? Uncomfortable? Are there speeds you’d like to go at? How do you become comfortable moving at different speeds? And changing speeds?
Life may set the speed limits but remember you’re the driver. So, what’s your pace today?
Two Links Du Jour:
Slow Down Life is Happening – Headspace offers global mental health support through meditation, mindfulness, coaching, therapy, and psychiatry, fostering life-changing habits for a healthier, happier you.
What Speed Should You Live Your Life? Chicago-based Live Better promotes holistic health, growth mindsets, and the empowerment of individuals to improve themselves and the world.
Two Minutes Du Jour 