Ever feel like life is just one big, never-ending sprint? We wake up late, scramble around the house like headless chickens, then jump in the car and turn into speed demons. Heaven forbid we hit a red light! Suddenly, we’re furious at that poor soul in front of us for having the audacity to obey traffic laws. And for what? So we can rush through a workday, checking our phones every five minutes like they contain the secret to happiness? Then it’s back in the car, more speeding, more frustration, grab some fast food, and collapse into bed. Rinse and repeat.
Seriously, what’s the hurry?
It’s like we’ve become victims of our own “microwave” culture—everything has to be instant. Instant coffee, instant news, instant gratification. But in our obsession with speed, we’re missing out on the richness of life. What if, instead, we just slowed down?
Try this: wake up a little earlier. Take a leisurely shower instead of a five-minute power scrub. Let the smell of fresh coffee fill your home instead of shelling out eight bucks at Starbucks. Step outside, watch the sunrise, breathe in the morning air, and realize—you’re alive! That alone is worth celebrating.
When you leave for work, give yourself an extra ten minutes and drive the speed limit. No road rage. No anxiety. Just a peaceful commute. And while you’re at work, maybe, just maybe, put your phone down. Unless you’re saving lives, whatever notification you’re waiting for can wait a little longer. Pack a lunch instead of ordering DoorDash—your wallet and your waistline will thank you.
On the way home, instead of racing through traffic like you’re in the Indy 500, take your time. Roll down the windows. Notice the flowers blooming, the kids playing, the fact that the world is still turning even when you’re not rushing through it.
And when you get home? Kiss your spouse. Hug your kids. Ask them about their day and actually listen. Savor a meal together. Watch the sunset. Give thanks for another day, because—spoiler alert—time isn’t slowing down. The days may feel long, but the years fly by.
Before you know it, you’ll be looking back, wondering why you were always in such a rush. Don’t wait until it’s too late to appreciate life’s small, beautiful moments. Slow down. Savor the ride. Because, really—what’s the hurry?
Troy P Zehnder 