Learning to Pace Myself: From Rush to Reflection

Full transparency: I do not know how to pace myself. Lord knows I need help. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been built to just get it done.

My process usually looks something like this:

Plan

Overthink

Overthink again

Prepare some more

Overthink one more time.

Then execute……and sprinkle a little extra overthinking on top.

And yes—it gets done. But here’s what I’ve realized over time: getting things done doesn’t always mean doing them well—or in peace.

For years, I thought moving fast was the key to success. I thought the more I accomplished, the better I was. I thought slowing down meant falling behind. But now, as I grow older and wiser, I see the cost of my constant rush.

The Lessons of Rushing

I regret some of the things I rushed—not because they weren’t worthwhile, but because I didn’t give myself space to breathe, enjoy, or fully experience the process.

Rushing robbed me of peace. Overthinking robbed me of confidence. Always pushing forward robbed me of clarity.

I was so focused on the finish line that I forgot to appreciate the journey. I was so caught up in “what’s next” that I missed “what’s now.” And over time, that constant push can take a toll on your spirit, your relationships, and even your health.

Choosing a New Pace

The good news? I’m learning. Slowly but surely, I’m learning to pace myself. I’m learning to:

• Move intentionally instead of frantically.

• Respect my energy and my boundaries.

• Dream big without drowning in pressure.

• Rest without guilt.

Goals are meant to inspire, not exhaust us. Purpose should motivate, not drain us. And success that costs your peace? It’s not really success at all.

Grace Over Grinding

Slowing down doesn’t mean stopping. It means being mindful. It means trusting God’s timing instead of forcing your own. It means creating space for reflection, joy, and growth.

I’m learning that pacing myself isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. Every day, I’m becoming more patient, more intentional, and gentler with myself.

If you’re someone who struggles with the same rush-to-accomplish mentality, know this: you don’t have to sprint to be successful. You don’t have to overthink to be prepared. You don’t have to push past your limits to prove your worth.

Slow down. Breathe. Reflect. And trust that progress, purpose, and grace come in their own time.

Here’s to moving with intention, to growing with wisdom, and to pursuing our goals without losing ourselves along the way.

Talk soon,

Shutanda