The Difference Between "Slowing Down" and "Going Slow" in a Demanding World

In today’s fast-paced environment, rest is often viewed as a luxury rather than a necessity. Hustle culture drives us to strive, achieve, and stay active relentlessly. Supremacy culture—rooted in perfectionism and equating productivity with self-worth—demands unceasing output. Grasping the difference between "slowing down" and "going slow" is essential, as this distinction resonates in a society that equates rest with inadequacy or the anxiety of lagging behind.

Slowing Down vs. Going Slow: More Than Semantics

Initially, the phrases "slowing down" and "going slow" might appear similar, yet they convey distinct meanings. In therapy, clients are frequently encouraged to “slow down,” while the suggestion to “go slow” brings a different energy altogether.

"Slowing down" often seems passive or forced. It suggests limitations, a delay, or a departure from a quicker, more efficient speed. One might perceive it as an invitation to decelerate, yet it doesn't always align with their real needs. For individuals entrenched in hustle culture, the concept of slowing down can trigger anxiety. What if I lag behind? What if I'm not sufficient? The apprehension of being inadequate in a world that values speed and achievements can be quite intense.

Conversely, "going slow" refers to mindfulness and intentional choice. It’s a deliberate decision to create space and proceed at a pace that honors one’s own rhythms. This approach enables individuals to interact with life and themselves sustainably, allowing for moments to pause and reflect. It focuses less on permission and more on regaining control. The essence of "going slow" often manifests as a bold act of self-care amidst a world that demands quicker, immediate action.

Hustle Culture and the Fear of Rest

We inhabit a world that idolizes the hustle. Social media and corporate settings promote the relentless chase for success, often compromising our well-being. For many clients, taking a step back feels like a loss. Rest equates to "missing out,” not achieving enough, or feeling unworthy. Supremacy culture strengthens these notions through unrealistic perfectionism and an obsession with high achievement as markers of success and self-worth.

This internalized pressure leads many clients to wrestle with a profound anxiety: What happens if I take a break? Will I fall behind? Am I valuable if I'm not constantly producing? These crucial questions emerge in therapy as we confront the idea that our worth is solely linked to our outputs.

Going Slow as Resistance to Supremacy Culture

Supremacy culture manifests in therapy when clients struggle to slow down or take breaks. They often feel guilty for needing time off or rest, viewing it as a weakness instead of a natural biological and emotional necessity. The pervasive belief that rest signifies laziness or inadequacy affects many, especially those from marginalized communities, where systemic pressures intensify the need to "prove" oneself through relentless work.

In this framework, the call to slow down serves as a significant act of resistance, challenging both personal and societal narratives. Slowing down involves respecting the body’s need for rest, the mind’s requirement for space, and the spirit’s desire for renewal. It’s more about finding your rhythm rather than succumbing to external demands. This shift encourages us to dismiss the idea that our value is linked to our productivity, inviting us to embrace a new approach focused on being present rather than racing through tasks and prioritizing depth over mere quantity.

The Journey Toward Going Slow

Understanding the difference between “slowing down” and “going slow” can be transformative. It requires unlearning deep-seated beliefs associated with supremacy and hustle culture. As you start to adopt a slower rhythm, you may frequently experience a range of emotions—fear, resistance, relief, and eventually acceptance. This process is not linear, and the work is ongoing.

Rest is essential and rejuvenating. Individuals realize their value is inherent, independent of their productivity. Embracing a slower pace fundamentally involves rediscovering one’s humanity in a society that frequently devalues those who fail to meet the pressures of rapidity and continuous output.

Final Thoughts

For anyone trying to understand the distinction between "slowing down" and "going slow," the therapeutic journey can provide valuable insights. Going slow doesn't mean missing out; rather, it fosters a stronger connection with oneself. It challenges the dominant culture that insists we must constantly do more, be more, and never take a break. It emphasizes that rest is not a sign of failure, but a form of resistance and self-care.