Anyone who's watched a F1 race knows it's not just about speed, it's about adrenaline, excitement, strategy, teamwork and nerves. The cars are fast, but the drivers are the ones who master precision, strategy, and control. It's about hitting the apex of every corner, precise timing through gears, and staying laser-focused even under immense pressure. That's where the saying "slow is smooth, and smooth is fast" really clicks for me.
Rushing through anything simply to finish it is risky. It's important to check all the boxes and make multiple passes through your work; wearing a different set of lenses to view things in different perspectives. It's the same principle those F1 drivers use – smooth, deliberate actions lead to faster lap times.
This "slow is smooth" mindset isn't just for work stuff either. It applies to everything. For example, when I'm learning something new, I've realized it's better to take my time and really understand the basics before jumping ahead. Or in relations & friendships, sometimes it means slowing down to really listen to what the other person is saying. It's about being present, being intentional, and making sure every action counts.
Applying the Brakes to Accelerate
Here's how I'm trying to live this "slow is smooth" philosophy:
- At Work: Breaking down big projects into smaller steps, focusing on quality over speed, and double-checking my work. It's about being efficient, not just fast.
- Personal Growth: Taking my time to learn new things, practicing consistently, and not getting discouraged by setbacks. It's a marathon, not a sprint.
- Relationships: Really listening to understand, not just to respond. Being present in conversations and valuing quality time over quantity.
It's not always easy to go against the "go, go, go" mentality, but I'm finding that embracing this "slow is smooth" approach actually helps me achieve more, and do it better. It's like finding my own F1 flow – smooth, controlled, and ultimately, faster.
// cheers, Dan Marr
