Faster is not always better. In fact, slowing down can often be the key that unlocks potential and kickstarts progress. Consider these three ways that slowing down helps men be better:

1. Perspective: The great baseball player and pop philosopher Yogi Berra once quipped, “We’re lost, but we’re making good time!” Many men are so busy they never take time to look at a map to see where they are, where they are going, and how to get there. Refusing to take time to gain perspective is a sure-fire way to run out of gas running around in circles.
2. Promise: A hurried life often leads us to feel as though everything depends on our own strength and effort. Many men have adopted the mantra, "If it's meant to be, it's up to me" when it comes to achieving their goals. However, slowing down allows us to trust more in God’s promises. Proverbs 3:5-6 urges us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” When we slow down, we give ourselves the chance to remember that God is in control.
3. Peace: Less rest makes men restless. Peace is an impossible experience for those who never take time to slow down. One of the most powerful examples of this can be found in the most essential and universal human activities - breathing. Hurried, shallow breathing can lead to increased stress, reduced oxygen intake, impaired immune function, poor posture and muscular tension. Conversely, slowed down, deep breathing produces calm, lowers cortisol levels, improves energy, focus and clarity and regulates emotions.

For men, slowing down can foster peace in every area of life—at home, at work, and in relationships. When we take time to slow down, we are better able to listen to our spouses, spend quality time with our children, and lead others with wisdom and grace. Slowing down helps us focus on being present rather than simply being productive.

Stepping Off The Crazy Train: Loving & Leading A Counter-Cultural Life is a new IMPACT Cohort study for men who want to grow as husbands, fathers, and leaders. If you are a man seeking sanity in the pace and priorities of your life, family and career, we encourage you to join or start an IMPACT Cohort and participate in this 7 week study. Take action here.