Have you ever caught yourself overthinking something to the point of paralysis? Maybe you’ve missed an opportunity that was presenting itself to you because you couldn’t take decisive action. We often make things more complicated than they need to be, and, in the process, miss out on a gift life is trying to give us.
When I face indecision (which happens to me more than I care to admit), I repeat the title of a John Wooden book: Be Quick, But Don’t Hurry. Be quick to take a step, to get into action, to begin an experiment. But don’t hurry the experiment. Allow it to take its course–to flow and unfold and its own pace and speed.
When we are quick, we are trusting our instinct and intuition. We are using our inner guidance to engage with life, and choosing to be open to learning and growth. The second step–not hurrying–signifies a willingness to be patient with the outcome, recognizing that it may take some time for this new action or practice to bear fruit.
This strategy represents a balance of achieving (action-oriented) and relating (consciousness-oriented) as we go about the business of solving daily challenges. We are unafraid of making decisions, but remain mindful of both our intentions and our tendencies by taking strategic pauses along the way.
As I reflect on what’s next for me, I have done my best to follow Wooden’s advice. I’ve been quick to trust my instinct, which tells me it is time for a transition. Meanwhile, I’ve been very thoughtful and deliberate as the transition unfolds, taking time to gather information, solicit advice, and consider the impact of my decision on those around me. Being quick helps us keep from being stuck; not hurrying provides the opportunity to thoughtfully and patiently execute the plan.
Think of some opportunities in your personal and professional lives where you would benefit from being quick, but not hurrying. Embrace the paradox of instinctive action paired with thoughtful reflection. Stay in motion, but look where you’re going!
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