Today, I’d like you to answer this question honestly about yourself, concerning slowing down.
Many of us have heard the phrase or the analogy of ‘smelling the roses,’ but have we slowed down long enough to actually do so?
I found myself in disbelief or in shock as I read an email from another one of my peers who passed away this past week. Ironically, he is only six months or more older than me, and we both served in the Military.
Today, ironically, my mother celebrates another heavenly birthday; it is not a given that each of my siblings will slow down to reflect and pause to consider what it means to smell the roses.
Furthermore, during the Christmas/New Year’s break, I did take a few minutes or so to pause and think about the various members of my family who died during the holidays over the last ten years who are no longer living.
However, in the past, I really didn’t slow down mentally to reflect on all their lives and what each of these individuals meant to me.
It wasn’t until this past week, seeing another death announcement or obituary, that I had to seek some quiet time to slow down.
It appears that many of us attempt to reset our lives over the holidays with less activity to focus on, as meetings are not that important during the holidays.
In my opinion, there is a different mode mentality we shift our minds into, celebrating with family and friends, and just finding time to relax over the holidays.
At least that is what I’m telling myself.
As we enter 2026, I’m sure we all have tried to rationalize with ourselves in ways we can slow down.
Maybe slowing down has caused many of us to do some soul searching.
Going to the doctor and hearing changes we need to make as we listen to our bodies can also be insightful if we need to slow down.
Each of us, if we are listening to our bodies, will tell ourselves to slow down as a sign that something is not right.
What’s not right with you today, that may be counterintuitive with your lifestyle of slowing down?
I’m aware that slowing down can help us to prevent doing things poorly without rushing through life.
As you and I move physically through the stages of our lives, I’m sure that you have probably felt the urge to decelerate or slow down in fear of the consequences if you continue to move fast.
I’m sure you know plenty of people who can drive from Point A to Point B in the shortest amount of time because they refuse to slow down.
It’s a personal preface for me to pause when I know I need to make better decisions.
Many of us listen to conversations, whereas the person we’re listening to is speaking nonstop or so fast that we must wait until they slow down to get a word in.
As a thought, one can only imagine those who are living a fast-paced life.
Now imagine these same individuals who have not had their light bulb moments yet, when they realize it’s time to slow down.
It’s seeing that shift when they realize slowing down is good for their health.
What about you, when you simply say to yourself enough is enough.
There is something about the word retirement.
I remember people asking me what I was looking forward to, slowing down, and being able to smell the roses.
I have learned there is no badge of honor given to those who want to remain busy.
Therefore, this week, as you begin this week, will you take a moment to find some quiet time to refocus on what matters most in your life, or will you be the one who remains too busy?
For those we know that are high energy, me included, in this group, we must reclaim time, choose wisely what best works for our mental health and bodies.
Whatever practices that we employ today for our health should be one’s whereas we are willing to also say no to, making room for opportunities to relax and rest.
“Slow down and enjoy life. It’s not only the scenery you miss by going too fast — you also miss the sense of where you are going and why.” — Eddie Cantor.
Therefore, this week, I challenge you, me included, to slow down and enjoy life. “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” — Lao Tzu.
I appreciate you reflecting and discerning the feeling of slowing down. This profound to me because I too suffered lost of family members and friend close to me. After reading your blog it made me do some self awareness and act accordingly. I am a changed man pursuing longevity and quality of life. Thank you for the intuitive insight that changed me forever.
Jerome,
Blessings to you this morning, I was traveling all day yesterday. I’m humbled and honored by your words. One big key for me in 2025 that I am bringing forward in 2026 is Emotional Intelliegnce which self awareness is one of the tenents. I would recommend if you have not read the book “Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman” give it a try.
McKinley
Thanks for being transparent as you shared personal aspects of your life. What’s not right with me as I can allow my pursuit for success to consume several hours of my day. I don’t want to change who I am regarding my ambition, but I do want to be able to rest my mind more and enjoy quality time with my family. In addition, I feel compelled to slow down more and appreciate my career accomplishments instead of minimizing them in most cases when my family/friends highlight them.
Terrance,
Blessings to you. Thanks as well for being transparent. I believe when it’s all said in done, we don’t want to have any regrets. I believe you know the answer lies within you and in the end, you will figure it out as you always do. Have a blessed week and try to slow down when you able to take those breaks.
McKinley
Mr. McKinley,
This is so important. Thank you for being transparent. Nature does it for me every time. I spent about 20 minutes yesterday by the sea shore. It was so therapeutic. I left feeling refreshed. My mind was clear and I felt more energized. Thanks for the friendly reminder and importance of taking time to SLOW DOWN.
Patricia,
Greetings and knowing the culture of the Bahamian people and you have something most don’t take advangage of with seeing people visit the Bahamas through the various ports. Congratulations on spending 20 minutes on the sea shore as you took a moment to slow down. The question or challenge is reliving these moments over and over again.
McKinley
McKinley,
As usually your thoughts are timely. One of my goals and resolutions for 2026 is to slow down and appreciate the people that are in my life. I will stop and smell the roses every day.
Scott,
Greetings,
Knowing that we both are active in the community it’s going to be important for me to be intentional to make those necessary stops. Wishing you the best in 2026 as well.
McKinley
When I retired from Federal service in 2005, after 33 years of Federal service, I began slowing down on purpose and I am still trying to do that by reading, writing, praying, and intentionally pausing to reflect on blessings and favor. As you have noted, slowing down is a choice we must make. Thank you for sharing!!
Diane,
Thank you for your service to the Government. I applaude you for slowing down on purpose. It appears that you have a better grasp of what it means to slow down than most. Continue being intentional as you pause to reflect on blessings and favor from God.
McKinley
McKinley,
As you reflect on your Mother’s heavenly birthday…. ……. Be encourage🙏
This topic is very relevant and timely. I have learnt that there is much value in slowing down. Hence, I am intentional on slowing down, getting in oneness with creation and just enjoying my life and taking time to reflect.
Lucretia,
Greetings and I appreciate your comments and encouragement.
The key word is being “Intentional” which is so important. Continue to do what you are doing and enjoying all that life has to offer.
McKinley