Relax for the same result
A few years ago, I lived in Santa Monica, California, right on the beach.
There’s a great bike path that goes along the ocean for seven and a half miles. So, fifteen miles round trip. On weekday afternoons, it’s almost empty. It’s perfect for going full speed.
So a few times a week, I’d get on my bike and go as fast as I could for the fifteen-mile loop. I mean really full-on, 100 percent, head-down, red-faced sprinting.
I’d finish exhausted and look at the time: forty-three minutes. Every time. Maybe a minute more on a really windy day, but basically always forty-three minutes.
After a few months, I noticed I was getting less enthusiastic about this bike ride. I think I had mentally linked it with being completely exhausted.
So one day I decided I would do the same ride, but just chill. Take it easy, nice and slow. OK, not super slow, but dialing it back to about 50 percent of my usual effort.
And ahhh… what a nice ride. I was relaxed and smiling and looking around. I was barely giving it any effort.
I saw two dolphins in the water. A pelican flew right over me in Marina del Ray. When I looked up to say “wow!” he shit in my mouth. I can still remember that taste of digested shellfish. I had to laugh at the novelty of it.
I’m usually so damn driven, always doing everything as intensely as I can. It was so nice to take it easy for once. I felt I could do this forever, without any exhaustion.
When I finished, I looked at the time: forty-five minutes.
Wait — what?!? How could that be? Yep. I double-checked: forty-five minutes, as compared to my usual forty-three.
So apparently all of that exhausting, red-faced, full-on push-push-push I had been doing had given me only a 4 percent boost. I could just take it easy and get 96 percent of the results.
And what a difference in experience! To go the same distance, in about the same time, but one way leaves me exhausted, and the other way, rejuvenated.
I think of this often. When I notice that I’m all stressed out about something or driving myself to exhaustion, I remember that bike ride and try dialing back my effort by 50 percent. It’s been amazing how often everything gets done just as well and just as fast, with what feels like half the effort.
Which then makes me realize that half of my effort wasn’t effort at all, but just unnecessary stress that made me feel like I was doing my best.
That's an amazing comparison, yet it makes so much sense!
Ha! I've noticed the same rushing to work or appointments. Hardly saves anytime and is much more stressful. The only upside for moving faster is you're a harder target to be crapped on! ;D
☺ — Derek
The simplicity of this is just beautiful. Thank you.
Wow, now that sounds like efficient action. 50% less work to get 96% results equating in only a "4%" loss of result. Personally I'd subtract that 4% from the 50% of effort used, equaling a 46% increase of enjoyment in 100% of the experience. Now that's 46% more efficient in my book ;) Wow, I'm a geek. Great blog!
Right on D. So true!!
So good for me to hear this story. I find when I'm rushing and stressing I even get less done often and am worn out from it all. I'm going just embrace the relaxing into the steps of what I'm doing instead of trying to push it along. :)
As always Derek, great stuff
Hi Derek
This was one of the best articles I read of yours - and you have lots!
I suppose it's a nice variation of the Pareto principle but emphasizing on the stress and enjoyment factors of the process.
Excellent post!
This is stellar truth. Never heard anyone say it like this. Can't resist shamelessly posting my website link because it's all about this too. Get relaxed and ALL is BETTER. Thanks again Derek. http://www.personalpower.today/
Yep, I retired a year ago. 64 now and I still can't let go very easy. Saving myself the ankhs of a few minutes gained is still the essences of my daily routine... Point well taken...txs
In 1987 I was sent to take a course in anti-terrorism driving. In the first classroom portion of the session our instructor gave us a statistical comparison of drivers that speed to make appointments or to reach their job sites. According to all comparisons, the time saved by those weaving in and out of their lanes, speeding, cutting-off others drivers, over those holding to one or two lanes and holding to the speed limit, is six minutes tops. I since have tried to take in the moments on the road as part of my life process. My own observations lead me to conclude that "roadragers" really have no special place to go or dire need to be somewhere. Road rage and impatience are related compulsions.
Yes! Great comparison! I've heard that too. Thanks for bringing it up here. — Derek
I absolutely came to the same conclusion, when I nearly exhausted myself to death trying to work at the speed my employers wanted me to. Needless to say, "I was too slow, and never enough".
Today I have a job where I do half the work, and have enough time for a walk with my friend afterwards.
It's a vicious circle. Once you start doing things quickly, you'll have to do the successive things even quicker. Your brain will faster speeds at everything. It's exponential with time!
Oh Derek, how inspiring and so true...that is one of the main reasons I moved to California instead of New York. I recently discovered this experience whils recoding my Latest CD, soon to be released. We had 21 days to do it. And instead of fraking out , I told nyself just enjoy it and all will be ok. Do your thing. The producers and I finished recording , mixing and mastering in 19 days , and left us two days to just listen to the fruits of our labor. Ys! We are still amazed at how great it sounds, how much fun it was to make and without conoromising on an amazing sound and performamce. If we would have hurried up...we would have missed the entire thing. Thanks as always. Love, Rock N Roll and Candy ❤️🎸🍭KVR
Derek,
I had a similar experience, while swimming in the Atlantic a while ago...
A bit different, in the sense that I realized I cannot swim as fast as I could 20, or 25 years ago...
For me, it was a matter of accepting the fact that I was slower, but also realizing that I can still swim 3 miles through the Ocean, in about the same time, +/- 3-5 min., as it took you to bike your distance ( c. 45 min vs. 35 min long time ago )
So, the only difference is the privilege of enjoying either the Atlantic or the Pacific...
How fast, when & where you'll arrive...oh well, Life is a journey !
Cheers,
Lale
Wow, Derek. The universe is definitely looking out for me. I was just lamenting about how time and time again I push myself so hard, and there's always so much on my plate, that I let the stress of it get me in an even worse state, instead of just slowing down my frantic pace a bit. This has been a recurring theme for me, although I've been very happy and blessed to be doing family music for a living for 13 plus years- and the trend is perpetually upward. Anyway, this post came to me as a firm reminder to dial it back a bit, and to not "stress" on the "stress"! Relatively speaking, things won't get done much quicker anyway. Thanks Derek!
Cool story Derek ... time flies by when you are having fun ...
Thank you Derek,
Very true; as we are all rushing around in this information over load world. Good to see the time of observations of nature; and that the dolphins are out in good health!
See? That's what I'm talking about, I ate a word up there!
Oh Derek, how inspiring and so true...that is one of the main reasons I moved to California instead of New York. I recently discovered this experience whilst recording my Latest CD, soon to be released. We had 21 days to do it. And instead of freaking out , I told myself just enjoy it and all will be ok. Do your thing. The producers and I finished recording , mixing and mastering in 19 days , and left us two days to just listen to the fruits of our labor. Yes! We are still amazed at how great it sounds, how much fun it was to make and without conpromising on an amazing sound and performance. If we would have hurried up...we would have missed the entire thing. Thanks as always. Love, Rock N Roll and Candy ❤️🎸🍭KVR
Moral: "it's later than you think! Stop and smell
The roses!"😎
Amazing realization. Thanks for quantifying it for us in such a relate-able way! But what are the odds of getting beaned right in the mouth!?! woah!
Love the read, love the photo. I used to feel that if I didn't stress and worry, what I was afraid of would certainly happen.
Derek...on my 2011 bicycle ride across the US for WoundedWarriorProject.org
I was fully able to experience uphill and downhill with similar calm.
Love this message
Yep
Wow, I can so relate! I throw myself into everything and burn myself out. I am going to slow it down a notch. Thanks for pointing this out!
Peace,
Cody
Thanks Derek - this is such a great point and a great article to illustrate it. And it came to me at the perfect time, so thank you for sharing!
What an excellent article! I have discovered the very same thing. I struggle with the old learned behavior that falsely tells me I have to try harder, faster, get it done, blah blah blah. It's a false paradigm. This is SO spot on. Thanks Derek!
Wow Derek,
(when I say wow, I'm indoors with no danger of Pelicans)
That is an interesting recollection and very good advice. To me it means do what what you have to do to take care of biz and more forward, methodically, consistently...not in a frenzy.
t.ice
santa monica _is_ lovely, isn't it? :+)
-bowerbird
A big part of my heart is still stuck on a palm tree there somewhere. Some say on a quiet night you can still hear it beating. ☺ — Derek
I noticed that this principle applies to hitting golf balls many years ago. I would wind up and swing with everything that I had, and the ball would go about 300 yards. Then I used the same club for a shorter distance, and just did a relaxed swing. The ball would go about 300 yards. In order to lay up shorter, I would have to intentionally hold back the swing.
Great example! Thanks Bruce. — Derek
Youth = energy
Age = wisdom
It was every thus! Thanks for the crystalization Derek.
Great thought and great truth...
in sync with natures rhythm, you always win.
Great comparison. Sometimes when we push too hard, we get frustrated that an equal amount of force seems to be pushing us back from achieving what we want. These are the times we need to pull back on the intensity an be smart about the angle from which we want to approach the potential achievement of said goal. Thank you Derek! Have a great day.
Wow! That's insane!
Seriously, we should all take a stroll and enjoy the ride.
Perfect...great insight and advice on life in general. Bravo, buddy! And thanks. Nelson Trout.
www.nelsontrout.com
So simple, so true!
I wish I got the jist of your story sorry I missed it
I take it easy behind the wheel now because I've learned much the same lesson, that the stress of driving eighty miles an hour isn't worth it. I'm not going to reach my destination that much faster. So why not chill, listen to some great tunes or some inspirational c.d. Time goes. Why waste it in needless stress? Thanks for the insights, Derek. They're always appreciated.
☺ — Derek
Wonderful example of haste makes waste!
I will remember your story. Thank you Derek.
About 5 years ago, after a motorcycle crash, I was moving much slower. You have put into words what I realized to be true after that event.
Now I'm seventy, but I still have to tell myself to "chill". There's no rush. Those projects still get done. No one will "die" if it doesn't.
I needed this. Being the captain of my own financial ship - sailing, baiting the hook, hauling in the fish, selling it, cleaning up, etc., I rarely relax. My business is producing shows (same as fishing) to keep my small (25) but talented artists booked and happy. I go to sleep stressing the next booking, wake up anxious, hoping the phone will ring, following up on phone calls and emails I send out for the same result. And you're right. Whether I'm calm or stressed out, the phone rings when it wants to and emails come in when they do, often with positive results. O've actyally got a show that's doing very well. Today, four bookings! Nice! I work out of my home office in my shorts, no long commute. I can take a break when I want. Like that song says, " life's been good to me so far." Thank you for reminding me, Derek.
thanks, derek....i REALLY needed to hear that today...your timing is impeccable...
This is the best thing you've ever written. Thank you.
Great article Derek. Keep them coming.
Your article makes a great point. Even I was surprised by your 45 minute time. I was expecting 55 minutes and less bird shit :)
So you know the difference between biking, and mindful biking. You can only be present and really appreciate life moment to moment. We fell prey to speed, multi-tasking, arbitrary finish lines as pinnacles of achievement; instead it left us with stress and burn-out. Life is always 'this moment unfolding'.
So flipping true. I'm pushing 50 and I run 25-35 miles a week and a year ago I ditched the garmin and the iphone app and now I just run with a $30 ironman watch. How fast am I running? Don't know, don't care. Nothing to charge, nothing to track, no type A obsessing. At the end of each month I note the total time on the watch and then reset it. It's renewed the joy for me. Thanks for posting.
I do yin yoga three times per week. It is slow and meditative with poses held for up to five minutes. When I first started doing yoga, it was part of an effort to take back control of my stressful life... and I brought that stress with me into the studio. I was driven to reach the full expression of each pose so my mind drove my body. One day in class after a particularly stressful day, I was exhausted but (as usual) determined. In one of the longer poses, I was pushing per usual when someone elsewhere in the room made a noise. Distracted, I opened my eyes and looked around but forgot to keep pushing... and my hips settled into the desired position for the first time.
Sometimes trying harder chases the goal further and further away.
Wow! I have seldom had the choice to go fast: I seem to have been behind the door when the "fast" genes were passed out. I've always felt a hint of guilt about being "slower paced". You have just given me elegant permission to drop the guilt! YAY!!! Thank You, Derek!
found this out too when madly driving myself to finish a project by what I thought was a necessary deadline and kept encountering ridiculous roadblocks never before experienced. What they did was force me to slow down, take a look around, let go of the unrealistic deadline and end up with a better product.
I learn that lesson years ago after speeding tickets in Chicago. Now I don't rush and I'am always on time. Chill!!! Cool heads wins the race.
I love this analogy will think about it when I'm stressed. Same thing... I realized if I'm coasting along enjoying the workout or work, I find that I can last so much longer without the burnout! Thanks derek! When are you planning on coming back to the US?
That makes complete sense to me. When I accomplish a task that was frustrating me, but turned it into an adventure, still took me the same time, but I was pleasant on the other end!
Or you could just leave what you are doing and go enjoy a ride on your bike! I find that I come back to the task refreshed and more able to complete the task...
Ha! Good point. Thanks. — Derek
"The hurrier I go, the behinder I get." Nice to have the data to go with it - good to be reminded of time and how relative it is. Better to be reminded that time is fleeting and that there are things out there that one misses if one's life is in constant "zip" phase.
Thanks Derek,
I wholeheartedly agree. When I bought my first brand new mac computer, it was a $3000 investment. I asked a friend who buys stock "how much would I have made with $3000 of apple stock in 1997?". It worked out to something like 8 million dollars. So, I guess I could have saved myself a lot of work. It's all about perspective.
Wow, love the pelican bit. BTW I read the book you recommended on Stoicism and it really helped me. I had the same feelings you did about the philosophy. I find the negative visualization techniques really effective to combat hedonic adaptation. I also love the retroactive negative visualization, it reminds me of a famous Dr. Suess quote: "Don't cry because it's over, be glad that it happened" something like that. I was walking in drenching rain the other day and I thought to myself that thankfully I wasn't freezing cold and it isn't a hurricane (yet).
☺ Thanks Tom! So glad you read it and liked it! — Derek
So true DS, often think this when I see someone overtake me on our mountain road only to catch up with them when they're stuck behind a slow truck. Go with the flow I say....and flow with the go.
One other thing: when running late, I like to remind myself that I'm not actually late until I arrive. (I had a near-fatal car wreck once running late to a gig. I never made the gig, so technically I was not "late.")
I love it!! thanks for your thoughts!!!
A resounding amen. The reminder is always timely...and appreciated
Hey derek,
It seems the older I get the more i realize how important it is to slow down and "enjoy the ride". Especially now a days when technology rules our lives and things seem to be moving so fast. As soon as you catch up, you're already behind. ☺
Thank you Derek...this advice seems tailor-made for me today. Those of us who tend toward over-achievement need to learn the art of nature-attuned pacing...taking the time to taste all of life and thus respond to it creatively.
As long as I'm willing to give up that fake "adrenalin rush", a very good way to go! Thanks, Derek!
What a great story. It is a very important message so thank you for sharing. I have followed your rise from the founding of cdbaby through today. I find you a fascinating character. I love that your success seemed to mark only the beginning of your spiritual journey. Reminds me a little bit of George Harrison. I always remind myself to stop long enough to look at the beautiful sky, clouds, flowers and trees. Keep rocking my friend. Keep giving back. You are an inspiration.
Steve R
Great article Derek! Just what I needed. I wonder if this is even more so true for the artistically creative pursuits... Songwriting, painting, writing, etc.. Often I find myself going balls to the wall and exhausting myself creatively... Not necessarily my mind but more my overall... Heart, I guess. I find myself burning out but at least getting stuff done (not a great outlook).
Thanks for the great perspective.
Fast pace = 50% Oxygen intake
Relaxed pace = 80% Oxygen intake
Time spent? Who cares. Just enjoy the ride.
Peace
Hi Derek!
Beautiful photo! Thank you! I agree. I have just been thinking about the value of time, and how it is worth more than money to enjoy.
Just a thought. I had a super day today, enjoying my time, and making music with joy!
Thank you so much Derek!!
truly
Rachel ☺
Another good story Derek. I've started to slow down in the past two years. Should have done it ten years ago and I would have been feeling much fitter now.
This definitely resonates for me! As an East Coast native/type-A creative I find it hard to believe I'm working hard enough/doing enough unless I feel stressed and overwhelmed about it, but I'm starting to realize how much that feeling really is a choice. Learning how to get things done without eating myself alive is a skill I'm trying to develop. Plus, I've noticed one of the side effects of making the choice to feel stressed out by everything is resenting those who don't feel that way and go about their lives blissfully relaxed about the same things stressing me out. Like they say, if you can't beat them, join them...
I had an oddly related yet unrelated experience yesterday. It was raining and I tend to squint in the rain. I suddenly decided to try not squinting to see if it made any difference.
The difference was all the muscles in my face relaxed and no extra water got in my eyes. What was I afraid of?
☺ — Derek
Yeah, it's interesting and ironic. You would think that all that hard work would pay off but it really doesn't get you where you want to go and the price is high too. Right? You knocked yourself out, trying to get this great time and you missed out on so much of the natural splendor of the trip. I would point out that you actually didn't do any training for this though. Like maybe to see results you might have to train for 6 months, or a year, or 10? And you weren't getting any professional help either. I saw a good video on some random channel like Discovery (if I were sharper I would remember it exactly) where the guy was
I agree with you Derek. I found that out many years ago. It's like driving clear across town to save 10 cents a can on pork & beans. So you buy 6 cans at a discount, BUT if you add up your time it took, wear & tear on your car, gas money you don't save any money. In fact you lose money.
You must be missing this when it is so hazy in Singapore.
the guy had some expert advice on how to improve his sprinting. It was surprisingly straightforward, like put your feet down more deliberately or something. Anyway, he saw an immediate improvement in his 60 yard sprint times. The pointer didn't make him world class but he did improve. My point here is that I would be curious to find out if you had gotten some pointers from a good coach if you would have seen improvement. That's what it's about right? Setting a personal best? Or I guess it's PR? Personal Record?
This, my friend, is one of life's most wonderful lessons; realizing that you can enjoy the journey and still win the race.
It also unlocks another great life lesson. Which is that "attitude" makes all the difference in the world.
There are of course other nuggets of wisdom too, but these are a couple biggies. And the faster someone figures them out, the better :)
I wish we were friends in real life, and could hang out.
I've been riding my bike all summer. Between then and now, I've noticed the power of relaxed action, too.
Your muscles, mind and breath are now paced for the loop. Whereas in the beginning you were probably fighting the resistance of your body, mind and breath which made you fight with the miles. Maybe its really about trusting that eventually repetition will lead to ease.
The photo + the line:
"I saw two dolphins in the water. A pelican flew right over me in Marina del Ray. When I looked up to say “wow!”, he shit in my mouth. I can still remember that taste of digested shellfish. I had to laugh at the novelty of it."
Gives great texture and brings me right into your story.
Thanks again,
Renee in Montana
After having moved to numerous of states in my lifetime - I'm finding modern civilized societies are rushing faster and faster to do everything - especially driver on highway with road rages.
In America, East coast seems the worse when it comes to hurry-hurry mentality.
I look forward to moving back to Colorado sometimes in the near future.
Great story, and can relate on many levels! :)
Derek as always I enjoy your posts when you do them
Thanks. Couldn't be a more appropriate realization, right now.
It's not the speed at which we reach our destination that counts, rather the experiences we have along the way.
Another awesome reminder to slow down and enjoy the moment.
The law of diminishing returns. Great analogy.
Rarely relaxed as you can see, since I've already read and replied to this. To go that fast I'd have to be riding a motorcycle. What I take from that is to use the tools best suited to me to achieve the desired result.
More power to you, Derek. When you get to enjoy what you're doing, you would not notice the time or effort that you are putting in. Subconsciously, you would put in almost as much effort as when you stress yourself out, and that's the truth of it.
Cheers,
Poh S. Lim
Love this one, as usual, thanks for the great article... x
Sounds like you were just out of shape. When I teach drums it's all about posture, breathing, and relaxing.
" When I looked up to say “wow!”, he shit in my mouth. "
If I sped read this. I might have missed this piece of gold myself.
Great article, not so nice snack. Love the comment about the drivers on the road too. I did a similar experiment when I used to commute on a bicycle in London. My commute was almost an hour and I would see many bikers would jump red lights and pedestrian crossings and ride on the pavement. I had a bike computer that actually calculated time not moving on any journey and even on the worst day I only lost 3 minutes to traffic lights. Not worth risking your life (and other's) to save 3 minutes!
Derek,
Certainly words to live by.
Always appreciate what you do. Seems you dropped off the radar for awhile. Nice to see you back.
Brian
Like two aspirin for the soul!
Well stated!
I'd write more but I'm relaxing!
P
It can be a bit of a double edged sword.
The advantage you are getting by pushing yourself on the bike ride is that you are conditioning your body. Weather its 43 or 45 minutes is probably not important since the bike ride itself is the objective. (As opposed to racing or delivering a package)
I've erred on both sides. In the past I've pushed myself too much, stressed myself out and lost enthusiasm. Other times I've pushed myself not enough and not achieved the results I wanted. The trick is to find a balance.
I think finding balance is very difficult sometimes.
Thank You!
nice to read your thoughts again. I have been a follower of yours for a very long time. where are you living now. have you ever done a TEDTALK. you've been writing and traveling and inspiring many of us. who are you really????
best wishes
Jane
It's interesting and amazing at times how little or much we put into our approach or effort to a task or project really affects the outcome and how we feel during and afterwards.
A couple/few years ago I made up my mind that my life was not going to be on such a tight schedule that everything seems to always be rushed or feel like I was rushed.
There is still a need and time for certain things and situations to be done promptly, or with full effort but not all things.
I bicycle a lot and any good coach will tell you that you must slow down at times to get faster. Recovery, rest and relaxation is absolutely a necessity!
We should enjoy life!
I've had the same a-ha experience driving my car. it's really quite a shift once you start living it.
Brilliant story, Derek. I've been developing my ability to meditate, be present and notice and this ties right in with that. We see this so much in traffic. Good to relax and appreciate the time and space. Thank you, for the visual, ...and the extra emotional impact with the unexpected seafood!! I always appreciate your insight and ability to communicate wisdom and wit.
Hey, Derek, thanks for sharing. These are the kinds of things I think would make great audio material for
drive time. Haven't we all noticed that when the red Maseratti zooms past me and cuts in front of 3 other people, we all seem to get to the next stoplight at the same time? I love it when that happens. Just a thought.
Great article, Derek. I know the feeling -- I'm learning to be waaaay more relaxed, and my effectiveness is, if anything, greater. Thanks!
Really enjoyed your talk at WDS, too. ☺
I've been working on the same music project since 1995. It's due for release this Halloween. A friend asked the other day, "Aren't you disappointed you haven't had any success?" I replied, "Every day that I'm working side-by-side with my brother Mike, I know it can never be better than this. I'm grateful every day for our success."
Check out "Slow Mo" in Pacific Beach. He gave up neuroScience or something to spend his days roller blading the boardwalk in Slow-Motion while listening to classical music. Interesting dude... used to be my neighbor
Intentional Inspiration, I'm Going for a Hike . . It's Fall . . . Time's Flyin' By Fast . . . I Might Get Some Ideas for a Song . . . Cool, Thanks & The Lord Talks To Me When I'm Walkin' . . . Breaks up the Routine. Can't Put God in a Box. :) God Bless You Bro !
Derek, this is brilliant. I'm going to try this starting tomorrow.
And while I've heard many stories of people getting shit on by birds, yours takes the cake! Ugh! Lol.
What a great reminder that the unimportant things are all in our heads! Thank you for this great insight...I'll use it the next time one of my various creative projects calls me to an important task. And I won't make a big deal of it. After all...if we love what we do, why not love doing it 100% of the time in the moment?
Love it. Dude, he seriously shat in your mouth? Hilarious!
Derek, Well -articulated!
The most interesting observation is that going fast concludes to exhaustion.
While driving fast gives you a thrill, it can not be enjoyed repeatably the down side is that you end up exhausted + risk of getting killed (its dangerous to drive fast).
Here is the irony I see in the startups world today. We tell entrepreneurs to run fast ... like really really fast... for the thrill. Without realizing that this acts in opposite, because they will get exhausted, tired and bored quickly on idea which they were so passionate about at one point of time.
I think the key point is, to ask a question:
Are you in this play for a thrill and end it or Are you in this game for an enjoyment.
You gave me interesting food for thought, I will think more and quote you in some of my work.
This article hits home. I've been totally stressing myself out while writing the book I was working on for the last few months. There was period of time where I just gave up working on it because it seemed so difficult.
Turns out, I put too much unnecessary pressure to pushing myself to complete within a certain timeframe. The pressure was so intense that I turned tail and decided not to do anything.
Then in the next two weeks, I learned to relax a little and work on small bits at a time. and viola, the book got completed way faster, and in a more relaxed pace than I thought was originally possible!
I'm going to tone down on the "push myself to GOGOGO" part a little more and see what happens :)
So wise, Derek:
As you know, you were in that sweet state of flow.
Athletes know they're in peak performance and playing their best when it's easy and effortless.
Thanks for reminding us that playing easy beats working hard☺
Sam Horn,
author of Got Your Attention?
(still grateful for your gracious endorsement☺
I've recently noticed a similar thing while driving. I live on a small island with an interesting combination of high traffic volume and small roads everywhere. Only recently, it dawned on me that when I drive at what feels like breakneck speed I almost never gain any (or any significant) time advantage over the times when I drive at moderate speeds. Driving more slowly and deliberately allows me to 'see' much more and even to process more background thoughts. Additionally, I tend to arrive feeling more relaxed than I otherwise would be.
I think this desire to get everywhere quickly, literally and figuratively, is, as you've intimated, part and parcel of a culture of busyness for busyness' sake. All the pressure, angst and narrow-focusedness of being busy but none of the value.
Quality of life.... MATTERS!!
"One of the best pieces of advice I ever got was from a horse master. He told me to go slow to go fast. I think that applies to everything in life. We live as though there aren't enough hours in the day but if we do each thing calmly and carefully we will get it done quicker and with much less stress."
Viggo Mortensen
Derek -,this was a surprising revelation and I loved the discovery!!! It reminded me of going just 55 or even 50 mph on highways and figuring out that that was the perfect speed for birds to fly past my car without getting killed!!
Seriously !!! I had been watching how hard the birds flapped and struggled to get past my approaching windshield at faster speeds and this bothered me and I started my test!!!
I loved it and started thinking the highway
Techs must have studied this before setting the speed limits. 55 mph will let animals and birds get by safely...YES I thought it must be true!
But even if it isn't , going the speed limit
Especially on the two way roads, I get where I'm
Going at about the same time !!! No I'm not crazy! I just love what I found out!!!
Thanks for your. "Discovery" too Derek
ps
I worked through a recent stressful situation so that I can do both the required and the pleasure...the stress was in the mis-co co communication..Yeah! Super great to pass through the knot ...!
If only people in Atlanta would chill while driving home from work. Always the agressive rush to nowhere.
Sounds like Tai Chi which actually and measurably makes your Brain larger. The 5 Qualities of Tai Chi are 1, Slow, 2, Graceful, 3, Continuous, 4, Centered and 5.Balanced. I spotted this form of Martial Arts during the cold war while we were trying to catch up with Russia to get to the moon. The Crew for the space craft
could tell that I was really stressed out and they informed me that for them to keep that calmed down they did Martial Arts and especially Tai Chi. I tried it and it solved my issues. There are 126 moves and doing it slowly takes 20 minutes.
I can't believe a pelican shit in your mouth!
Really? That's just crazy.
If a bird poops on you (your head or shoulders, etc) it's considered lucky.
Is getting hit IN the mouth considered special bonus lucky?
two minutes longer to wash out pelican poop from your mouth? that's a fast rinse. I probably would have stopped and taken at least 5-10 minutes rinsing and or getting some mouthwash or a toothbrush or something to clean out my mouth...
but great story. we all need to slow down. a lot.
Lived in Santa Monica from 1980 to 2000. Loved the bike path.
You must come across many interesting people from all walks of life and interests.
The Tenor Guitar Foundation has inadvertently taken over the town of Astoria, Oregon....population. 20,000, remenicent of Sausalito. The Mayor is declaring "tenor guitar weekend"....no parking meters in Astoria, no sales tax....but you started your business in Portland, so you know.
Would you like to be on our board of directors? Why would you? Because it's fun, and because the Tenor Guitar Foundation exists to preserve the legacy of the tenor guitar.
Visit our site, then join us. We're making history (not money) http://www.tenorguitarfoundation.org
Check us out, join our board of directors (we're a 501c3) but a house in Astoria ($200,000 to
$500,000) and enjoy life in a small town on the Columbia River!!!
I have to learn how to lose the stress, and get on living my life without it. Thank you for a great incentive.
Landon
Two people out to enjoy the lake for the day; one had a speed boat the other had a kayak. Speed boat person went across the lake 100 times throughout the day, kayak person went to the other side of the lake ate lunch went back to the other side took all day. Which person had the most fun? Maybe the question could be which person experienced THE LESS STRESS? Hal Gullick
Thanks so much for this post Derek. It really resonated with me. For me, I see it a lot with guitar playing and learning. Sometimes, some of my students will rush into a concept and practice it without much thought. The results are usually haphazard or close to nil as opposed to those who take some time to reflect on what to do before they take the next step. Taking it easy is a huge thing. Taking the extra time gives much more joy to the process and better results in the long run.
Thanks Derek!
As usual, nice article Derek. Encapsulates the less is more dichotomy...
Derek,
Thanks for the email and article. So true. I think in life we as people think we have to push and shove our way through it to get anywhere or anything in it. I love this approach and have adopted it along with the help of prayer.
I feel the same way about trying to save a few minutes in traffic.....pointless....just turn on
the music and enjoy the ....well...um....ride. Frankly I find humor in watching people try to rush ahead.
Derek,
I've had the same thing happening while speed walking. Sometimes I push myself while other times I go with the flow and just let my mind wander and my feet follow. I often feel much better the second way and it doesn't seem to take me much longer either.
Never thought to apply it outside of exercise, but will now definitely do so.
Thank you :)
Good one Derek. The taste of the seagull poop was quite a vivid image:)
I know that I know this is true. Why cannot translate it though to my every day life? Thank you for being open about this. But isn't it true in music also. When we strain it never is as enjoyable. When we tighten up, in an effort to perform, we lose the meaning of the song we are performing for the sake of the effort.
Derek, I'm truly grateful that you shared this wonderful story -- and it even has some comic relief from a pelican! As you pass on the wisdom you acquire in your attentive, reflective approach to life, you continually bless others with insights we can incorporate into our own lives. You're a real teacher. God bless you.
It seems like you could substitute the word "rush" with "worry". We can get the same stuff done, with less stress and more satisfaction if we work without worrying. In fact the quality of our work is probably better when we're not worried.
Your non red-faced approach leaves the door open for a true mindfulness experience. Ditto Mike, #20.
I often feel that I should accomplish more, use my time more effectively - but when I look back at what I have created (I'm a composer), there is absolutely no connection between how interesting my music is and how hard I tried to create it. It's rather the opposite. The times I was patient and let inspiration come to me - instead of pushing hard to become inspired - the results were always better. And I didn't feel exhausted or stressed. So, there is a hidden truth in what you shared with us, Derek!
Yeah, when you've been your own slave driver too long, mediocrity becomes a virtue!
Duke Ellington once said: «Don’t push it. Just let it fall.»
I loved this story Derek. We stress and work ourselves so hard. I know a couple of speeders (fast drivers) who could learn this lesson.
Too funny about the pelican, and that you could actually taste seafood in it's crap!! I'm glad you shared because I think the other lesson of the story is to try not to open your mouth when birds fly over!
Thanks for the story and a laugh.
Natalie
Very good point. The same in traffic. Danish TV made an experiment with two cars from 4 kilometers outside Copenhagen. One was taking risks, driving as fast (and dangerous) as he could and the other one followed the traffic, nice and easy. The difference was about 5 sec.
And with that bit of advice I close my computer and say goodnight.
Thanks Derek,
Best regards
Jan
Nice article! It remembers the saying 'live the moment'. Thanks for the comparison,that was really interesting. 96%? cool :)
This is an awesome article. Thank you so much for sharing it. I got a lot out of it and will apply it immediately
Sometimes the Universe makes us slow down or stop so that we notice the world around us. It's not the destination, it's the journey. If we can't enjoy or notice what's on the path as we move towards our goal, there won't be the appreciation, satisfaction or joy when we reach it. I am still working all this out for myself. Thank you for your insights, always welcome & thoughtful articles.🌈
Hello Derek,
Please consider creating an audio book. I am sure you've got plenty to say but, tired from work with my eyes already red from the computer, I never get chance to read your articles. But there is definitely a chance to listen to an audio book. Cheers
The same thing applies to playing the instrument. In fact I feel like I get 96% when pushing it and 100% when being relaxed.
Bingo! My friend and I ran this 25 mile seriously tough off road event every year. It's a long distance walkers event with lovely food stations along the way with cheerful people and fab homemade snacks! Yes, I know this sounds more like a roving picnic.
One year, my friend was training for a 100 miler and so he left me at the start and blew out a great time of 4.40 minutes. It hurt, he said, but hey the time put him in the top group.
The next year we ran it together with a different mindset--to have fun at the tea stations and enjoy the countryside. We had a blast and I still remember us dancing as we crossed the moors after climbing a large, nearly vertical portion. We were on top of the world singing Bruce Springsteen and grinning.
And guess what--we finished 15 mins later than his killer time when he was really pushing it and in better shape. 6% slower. But, 100% more fun!
It still stands out for the memory of us fogging off at mile 23 as we splashed each other with puddles.
Thanks for making me think of this again!
Peace,
Todd
I commute also by the bike everyday. This is my story. Thanks, Derek!
Your point is well taken. Still, to be fair, you can (over time) improve your cycling results greatly by working super hard and then recovering by extended soft pedaling, in intervals. It is a purposeful approach that may not be all that enjoyable. But it is effective. I think the metaphor holds true for any kind of work!
Same thing when you're driving to a destination. If you speed you'll save maybe a few minutes but the stress of looking for cops and looking at your speedometer is not worth it.
In the past when I have had what appears to be a monumental task to get done, I would spend hours, or even days, going over and over different scenarios in my mind, trying to decide the best, and most timely way to accomplish the task. The result often was that I was exhausted before I even get started. Recently, I have taken on probably the biggest challenge ever...essentially re-arranging my entire life. As I get further into this "project", I am finding that the more pre-determind effort I put into it, the less I get done. If I just take each segment as it comes along, spending whatever time is needed to get things done right, on it's own time before I move on to something else, l amazed by how much I am getting done. Also how much less effort it really takes compared to what I might have expected if I had pre-done everything in my head first
Derek it's incredible how well timed your articles are, I really needed to hear this right now. Thank you, big time.
Amen!
(BTW thanks to your Twitter post about LYL, I found out about this amazing person Scott Dinsmores and tragic passing. His work is helping me a lot at the moment. So thank you Derek!)
Excellent conclusion.
I live similar experiences while alpine climbing: you panic, stop breathing, clutch and the few holds available, and then you stop.
You take a deep breath, find a comfortable position, have a look at the grand view, and go on.
Actually, I would even say, relaxed is the only attitude for navigating great ordeals.
Ha ha ... Love it ... Really nice piece for reflection over my morning coffee.
Thanks Derek - life's what happens whilst your busy making other plans... Like you I'm becoming more of a rain dancer than a sun god ☺
Nice article Derek and as a regular sea-front jogger (well more like a fast stagger actually) I agree with you about having time to look around and enjoy the moment so to speak. Having said that, had you not spent quite a bit of time going at 100% you would not have found it possible to go at 96% and enjoy it at the same time.
Haha :) What's the chances of a pelican shitting in your mouth - I'm sure that must be good luck ;)
HELL YES! :)
I love to Think that when you do things you really like there is a sort of fine tuning with the universe so you GO as speed as You need .
Enjoy York life
Luisa /Milan
It’s easy to be brave afar
Millions of books have been written for ages. But we have the internet now. Knowledge is growing up increasingly. But, can people reach to wisdom since they achieve information easier?
When I was a student, I even needn’t have to study more for the lessons I love. Living the lesson and following it fondly was enough for successing in most of the exams. My sucess was in guarantee when I trust my proffesor and believe in what he teaches. But unfortunately I didn’t have a lesson about courage at school.
After years, in a period that I passed lots of stages, I would notice how incapable the things I knew besides the things my son Ozan that come into my life with a great surprise taught me. At the first ten days when he was born, I nearly cried and asked God what have I done that was worth this present by his head. We made a correlation that would never end at the first time we came eye to eye. That’s how I met my new teacher.
Ozan was a peaceful baby, but he had deep eyes. He looked like he understood, but did’t argue. He had a deep sight of confession. But it didn’t prevent him for approaching the things he love with desire.
I started to feel the things I knew, I cared, for example my career was meaningless. I was understanding that motherhood that seemed easy from outside wasn’t something as it was thought, and having a great fight with this inexperience that came at age of 38.
The days we went to park together were the bests. I was reading books while he was sleeping under a tree. He was interested in birds, clouds, grass and soil when he woke up. His communication with people was different, like he was sometimes steppig into another world, living in a lonely universe. He was so quiet. So quiet for the baby of a talkative mother like me. He didn’t pay attention to the toys those the other children pass out when they see. Those were the things those weren’t much clear, that I couldn’t make of at first.
Then I understood that the detention at his speech wasn’t something like he was a boy, he would open up in time as the people around me said. There had been many days I thought I was loosig my mind in this period.
Some of the meetings are difficult. Meeting with Autism at December 2008 had been difficult too. I was so scared at first. Most of the fears in my life tried to find a place to hide away, vanished when they saw this great fear. Then I understood that “defect” was a deficient word for describing Autism. I saw that there were many things to be leart in this situaton, although it was a bit painful. At first I noticed that we knew nothing about it. Because Autism was self conscious too. We had to learn the language of Autism for making a contact with Autism.
There are some plants those not only open up beautiful flowers but heal you up at the same time. It looked like my son brought a healing hand to me. My sister told me that I used to be an agressive person, but my aggressive condition went away and I completely became a touchy and sensitive person. She was right. I wasn’t hurt as I was used to. At last I understood that everybody was right in their opinion, actually they were just scared. Everybody was scared of something and trying to scare the others for protecting themselves.
I suppose that I, that was “brave afar” once have learnt many things about “real courage” from Autism.
Autism taught me not to be angry even I feel like I am holding a fireball in my hands, bending but not breaking down while I think that I am an unbending tree.
Autism taught me myself.
Exterminated me, taught me You.
Sedef Erken - İstanbul, Turkey, April 2010
Thanks Derek,
I find that I mostly work through my day jumping around to different tasks. It's the way I prefer it. I don't really stress out (there are days). I just move from one thing to another, enjoying the variety of tasks that a diy musician has. Then later in the evening if I happen to reflect on it all, I realize I've gotten so much done and I've enjoyed it. I may have learned this mode when I was a teacher at a day care. A kids life is filled with little of this a little of that without a huge expectation of results. When I operate this way I have fulfillment . I think it's the way things should be.
As an ER Doc, no one is interested in my dialing it back for any reason. No one has patience in my direction. Especially not the patients. Therefore the only dialing back I get to do is with my laid back personality and the drive to do anything other than my music when I have time off.
Thank you Derek to give me the chance to find out what this +4% means.
The results : By gaining 4% we are damaging our mental and physical health by approx. 20% and as average for the life, by keeping a
high speed in all our doings, we will short our presence on this beautiful planet by
minimum 10% ( approx minus 10 years......).
Thank you Derek for preventing a 10 years short...
This is a wonderful reminder, thanks Derek!
Great reading. But I would say that the result while relaxed was linked with the practice while red face. What I mean is that all the rides you did before was working for your endurance and this made you more fit while relaxed. But still I totally agree with your point.
You're right Derek. I was a professional road cyclist in the 1980s. That extra fraction of time saved is the most difficult because air resistance increases almost exponentially with speed. Makes perfect sense also that you'd have more fun going slightly more slowly. I've learned to slow down and enjoy the ride since I retired (and I get to spend more time with music!) Bikes and music go well together. Keep the rubber side down and the sunny side up!
Aloha, Doug Fitch
I will try this out.
Both the bike ride...and the need to relax a little.I've been pushing myself very hard because I recently lost a big client and was worried that I wasnt working hard enough.
So, lets give this a shot.I'm sure that the change in outlook will at least help my attitude :)
What a great way to start the day: coffee from freshly ground beans and a new article from Derek. I feel slightly guilty from laughing so much at the pelican bit. ;-)
You are totally right for most things about life.
But in a competitive sport (not that you were doing one), it is sometimes 1/100th of a second that determines difference between a Gold or Silver
As a saying goes:
If you want to know the value of one year, just ask a student who failed a course.
If you want to know the value of one month, ask a mother who gave birth to a premature baby.
If you want to know the value of one hour, ask the lovers waiting to meet.
If you want to know the value of one minute, ask the person who just missed the bus.
If you want to know the value of one second, ask the person who just escaped death in a car accident.
And if you want to know the value of one-hundredth of a second, ask the athlete who won a silver medal in the Olympics
Let me get this right....You're telling us to slow down and eat shit?
Hmmm... ☺
Yep! Shall we make a bumper sticker out of it? ☺ — Derek
Thanks Derek
Just what I needed to read!
Keep shining and sending the blogs! (at you own pace of course!) : )
There is no gift like the present. It's hard to simply "be".
Grateful for your message.
Fantastic, I love this! Just hit the nail on the head (with 50% less effort ☺ regards most of our stress being self induced and a way of convincing ourselves we're achieving more. It's the classic late for a gig or appointment scenario as opposed to when you don't want to get somewhere too early you arrive quicker with time to spare! (Time bending strangeness!)
A simple but effective :)
Hi Derek,
You writes few precious line now and then, and the invariably hold some very profound yet simple truths.
Once again you do not fail to hit a mark here. Both in running and in Tai Ch'i, for example there are moments of "flow" where you are not pushing hard but just letting go: it generally goes to prove that our brain is often against us and it needs to be put back in its place. Behavioural psychology is doing a lot to explain these things.
Keep writing, please (and thank you).
As a guitar teacher, I am always pointing out the "economy of movement" which is exemplified in your slightly slower bike pace with its esthetic advantage. You have given me a new analogy for the classroom -- thanks.
In violent agreement!
I remember "timed writings" in typing class where we did one for speed and one for accuracy. I was always surprised that I typed nearly as fast when I was focused on accuracy. It's a good lesson.
Good example! Thank you. — Derek
This is great! Exactly what I needed today!
Thank you ☺
Beautiful tortoise story ..meanwhile the waves keep breathing into the sand
Thank you for that... I appreciate it ☺
Love it! I noticed a similar thing for basketball, where I went 2-3 years of doing drills without actually playing in a competitive game. I was used to practicing at 100% plus a tad to push myself. Then I was invited to play in an organized scrimmage, at a relatively high level. I tried to play at maybe 95% intensity and I was burned out before halftime. Now I realized that I can coast at 50% intensity, and can achieve a better return using spurts of 70%. This also helped me discern when to go 100% or visualize game scenarios in practice.
Great read, great wisdom. I think as Americans we tend to measure success in the completion of things, and push through to the end of something at a frenetic pace. The benefit of exercise, like so many things in life, is in the doing, and you cannot store the benefits of it for the future.
...must tell your story to my children (25,29), thank you for sharing your stories with the world, this is one of best things people can do, with their experience - write down and share it. Regards from your old friend from Poland, from the times, when you were just starting cdbaby☺
Yup ! Some serious truths in this lovely 'Life' experience !
Keep up the 'Insight Streamin...' !
www.holisticgardeningdesign.com
Thanks Derek! Great thoughts. While reading this, an image popped up in my mind of a slow motion video I saw of a cheetah running down its prey. The cool parallel here is you could see how relaxed the cheetah was between leaps. It seemed to be a good analogy considering cheetahs are pretty fast and this relaxation technique may explain why. Great post Derek!
The old saying "more haste, less speed". Haste causes waste. Often on the highway while doing the speed limit, someone will wiz past, travel a mile up the road and pull off to their destination, I am only a few seconds behind them, what did they save.
I arose uncommonly early today...to read this, apparently ;-). And to live it on this early Friday morning in lovely Encinitas, CA and embrace the whole day with it. Suddenly, I am looking forward to today and all the JOY that I can pack into it, in a chill sort of way, of course. Yep, attitude determines altitude, and you certainly gave me a LIFT.
When I read the post, instantaneously came to me ...
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pareto_principle
I think it´s very important to find if you work for the main part or for the other.
Obviously it applies only at 80% of the cases ;)
Thank you Derek for making my day... I'm laying in bed ill and just laughed uncontrollably because of your pelican line ☺ Thanks man!
Ha ha, it's like the two bulls looking down at a herd of cows. The young bull says let's run down and mate with one of the cows...The older bull says, let's walk down and mate them all, lol
Guy
#75, Robin, reminded me that this summer, I purposely decided to relax my intense face and squinty eyes while playing tennis, and the outcome was that I looked so calm and confident that I freaked out my opponent and couldn’t help but win!
Thank you, Derek, for this perfect analogy for slowing down and savoring the moment. Why do we fear “wasting” time, when it is probably the best use of our time?
--Becky
Thanks for this anecdote and wisdom! I had an epiphany about 11 years ago when, at 30, I thought that my struggles with physical disability (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) were about to make me have to quit playing the piano. I had invested so much in gaining fluency as a jazz pianist and I felt my physical capabilities moving in the wrong direction. And then I played one gig with a great drummer and bassist who were both super-skilled and super-compatible. At the end of the gig I felt less tired and sore than I had on a gig in years, even though their skill had actually inspired me to play a lot of piano (more "notes-per-minute" than I normally would). I realized that a lot of the ways I was getting physically beat up had less to do with the actual activities and more to do with the embedded tension of trying to MAKE something happen. Once in an environment where those things could flow, it was substantially easier and ultimately inspired another phase of my performing career that I didn't think I'd have.
Very astute revelation you are sharing here with us. Am excellent reminder for all of us Type As. Mille gracie!
Yes! I agree! We just finished a project today, well ahead of schedule. We projected it would take 4-5 days to get it all together. Yet, when we started a day early, no rush, just getting our feet wet, we accomplished 95% of it in 2 hours. Completely amazing and stress free. I truly believe stress and "the push" simply hinder or ability to accomplish anything.
This sounds like you discovered the Tao of rejuvenation. I think it's a proven, ancient way of being.
My dad used to say, as I turned the West side highway into the Indy 500, "You won't save 5 minutes, son. And you could have an accident."
I finally did the calculations to discover he was right. He must have known because he drove the same damn way.
These days I check myself and slow down from time to time. When I do I discover that I'm a more CARELESS driver. More dangerous. That's right. I'm sitting back, enjoying life. When I drive full tilt I'm PAYING ATTENTION TO DRIVING AND THATS ALL. No time to look at the scenery as you discovered.
Ever notice that the texters aren't speeding. No, they're looking down when the light changes. Going 40 mysteriously in the left lane, leaving 10 car lengths in front. The drivers having wonderful conversations with the guest on their living room couch (front seat) don't have time or interest in driving efficiently.
But YOUR point is well taken. That extra effor wins by 2 one thousandths of a second at the Olympics. Causes heart attacks. And as you observed ruins your time. I like to ride my horse slow, and fast but rarely full out.
Happy trails!
Joe
Always take the time to stop and taste the bird poop!
Perfect summary. Thank you. ☺ — Derek
Eh... you get there when you get there.
Thank you Derek for posting this today. I so appreciate your sharing this wise insight, much needed today. With loving thanks, Ermina
Last statement is profound!! I can't tell you Derek how much this resonated with me this morning. Thank you for being right on.. Always enjoy your blog.
Thank you.
This is very inspiring. I'm in training with a new job, and feel very rushed.
Awesome!
Hi Derek
I go to my health club most days and I learned that doing two sets of resistance training provide about 80% of the value of going crazy and doing 4 or 5 sets. At age 58 I also do not want to have an injury by always going full out. I get more value and satisfaction from simply showing up each day and being satisfied that I am willing to do what many people do not. For me a bit less is more!
Absolutely amazing how this relates to my recent way of doing business here in Africa. I was such in hurry to rent office, hire staff, launch product and crash.
After 3 years of returning to the UK, i decided to give it another trial but this time in my passion of media. I have gone midway in actions and am surprise in the progress am making and many opportunities abound that i never saw in my last journey, its simply amazing. Thank you Derek i follow your thoughts in other past writings they are truly provoking
Wow! What a powerful message! I find I am constantly "running" to get to my next appointment "on time," or adding "too many things" to my calendar with the anticipation of getting them all done, but don't. You've proven that we can still take time to smell the roses while getting the same result. I think I'll buy some comfy shoes, slow down my "walk," and take a look around me to see the beautiful fall leaves coming our way in the Midwest. I'll probably get to my appointment within those 2-minutes when I would have been panting as I wait for my client. Thanks, Derek!! (PS I think the image of the bird droppings will be a lasting reminder, too ;-) )
Loved this story! I basically have discovered the the same thing in my biz.
Just relax, keep spirits high- good vibrations and clients come to me with much less effort.
Great article. You trade 4% of "productivity" for the chance to discover.
This is something I need to remind myself often. Thanks.
Great article Derek !
Good to remember your sayings when we get into situations of rod rage while driving in the city ...
And of course more subtle , in my case , playing the violin : ...less effort , more results !
Best,
Ioan
Thanks for this Derek. I ride from my house near Carson to Redondo Beach...ride to Hermosa and then come home again...the beach bit is the treat away from traffic...I have really slowed down as well...it's so much more fun to notice everything instead of rushing through like I I'm in a race.
I went to Santa Monica pier one day...turns out I rode about 50 miles that day...a little too much for me...but still a blast!
Derek, I think you have it right! Thanks for sharing! Although it still seems to go against my natural inclination, years ago I decided that all the intensity really got in the way of creating whether trying to compose music or writing prose or trying to solve a technical problem. So, to this day I try to understand what I am asked to do, do a bit of basic research, and then wait for the answer to come rather than attack the question on Day 1. I find that what I am searching for comes in time and on time every time.
Wow. This is great. I get this. I just read this to my fiancé who is physically sick from going going going (stressful). It's good lesson and reminder to take it easy.
Thanks.
I've had a similar experience getting to airports and rushing to make my flight. I fly a lot. I used to be nervous checking my watch every time a bus/taxi/train or my car hit traffic, my imagination caught up in worst case scenarios. Then again getting nervous in line for the security check etc.
I've completely turned this around. Now, as soon as I feel travel stress coming on, I slow down. Often I arrive just short before my flight and miraculously there are no lines anywhere and I stroll in the airplane with a smile just before they close the gate. And if I do miss a flight (very rarely) it's meant to be and something wonderful usually happens that I would have missed out on.
Unfortunately I never thought of applying the same attitude towards other things in life. Your article made me aware of the universal relevance of this. Thank you.
I love the 80/20 principle, this is a brilliant example. 50% extra stress for 4% time saving. Good reminder.
Derek
Thanks for the comparison - as I am struggling to figure out how to slow down time(remember as a kid weekend/summers were forever) I now have a 6-8-11-13 year olds. I have realized the way to slow down time is to only live in the moment - we cannot be thinking about yesterdays mistakes or what is going to happen tomorrow when if we don't do something. I have learned to always think and give 100% to the moment I am in and low and behold the days seems longer and I enjoy it more. I think my 6 year old thought me this.
We do need to put down the phones and enjoy the moment - try it once, as hard as it is - you'll see.
Thanks again
Jim
God grant me the serenity to accept the
things I cannot change, The courage to change the things I can, And the wisdom to know the difference.
Thanks Derick I needed that today! Hope all is well......
MV
Hi Derek,
Good to hear from you. I'm a little older than you so I a few years back that slow and steady wins the race. It is always good to hear from you. I loved the comment about the upside to moving faster.
Warm Regards,
Jacqui
Your two recent articles ("say no" & "relax") are a killer one-two punch of sublime advice…a terrific Rx for getting off the treadmill and actually enjoying your day, your time, your life. I first came to be aware of you, Derek, a few years ago when a product I ordered online (Miracle Noodles) credited you ("inspired by Derek Sivers) for their extremely clever THANK YOU FOR YOUR ORDER. It was indeed the best THANK YOU I've ever seen (still). And I googled you to see "who is this kool kat, Derek Sivers?" And now I have to say THANK YOU FOR YOUR WISDOM. You are a unique soul and special person. I've never met you, but you have improved my life more than you know. I just seem to internalize any advice you offer and begin to apply it reflexively. It always works.
☺ A noodle shop is using my email confirmation? How cool! I love when that gets around. Thanks for telling me. — Derek
Brother Derek,
Many thanks – great meditation as I go into the weekend. While I have your eye, thanks for the empathic concept of treating others as though it was their last day. Your work is passed onto my community, and well received.– Martin
Oh, this is so true, which is why time and effort can be two of the most natural things if we can just let ourselves do what we naturally would want to do instead of stressing ourselves out like you said. I tried doing this same thing a while ago when I was in traffic. Instead of swerving in between cars do get to my destination faster I went with the flo of traffic and found I got to my destination either at the same time if I had hurried or even earlier-- and, stress free. What a concept! I've tried to apply this, sometimes successfully and sometimes not within my life. It always surprises me how simple life is meant to be. Thank you for this post! Definitely something I need to remember!
Just what I needed. I have been stressed trying to do everything on my own. Thanks for your experience. God bless.
what are you talking about?
This is so relevant for me right now. Thanks, Derek! :)
Rush hour traffic on San Diego's 5 is a perfect example...
What is a 1/2 hour journey becomes 1 hour, but if you spend 1 hour at the beach in the evening after work to relax it turns back into 1/2 hour. and its way more fun to drive normally and hang at the beach than to sit in a car at snail speed.
"Yeah, know what you mean, too bad about the bird man"
Delightful read, thank you. I live in Wa. state and a brother in Co. forwarded your link to me. Definitely food for thought. I'm going to give it a try (except for the shit). You made my day and I'm going to give a try :)
You are such a unique person. I'd say "I want your life," but I am pretty happy with mine, but still ... I admire that you have so many wonderful life experiences. I sent this link to my twin sister, my 91 year-old mother, my son who is retired Navy and my daughter who has given me 5 delightful grandchildren. I hope they read it.
What a great post - I had the same experience this morning on my bike. Left the club ride and just rode through the hills, got cut off by a fox! - watched the sun come up through clouds, and met the club riders for coffee 5 minutes after they got done.
I was scrolling through the comments and noticed someone talking about the book on stoicism. I picked that up on your recommendation as well and it is life changing - I've cut way back on drinking and food because I've come to realize the satisfaction I'm looking for is not in the excess. After reading the book I happen to spend a week at an all inclusive resort. I drank soda water while all around me people are stumbling drunk by lunch, felt great and strong.
Hi Derek,
An excellent experience to have had, which is also elucidated in the fine book by Thomas Sterner
" The Practicing Mind' in which he documents deliberately taking his time and moving carefully in a non rushed manner throughout a day that had an enormous work load: two or three piano tunings and and a long drive...etc. He found that by not rushing he actually had more time do to everything and really enjoyed it all. Sound familiar? Great article and thanks as always.
Here's">sive.rs/book/PracticingMind">Here's the link to the book. I love it and think of it often. Thanks for bringing it up. — Derek
Heaven's yes! This is a corollary to the 80/20 rule. I once did the math on this non-linear relationship between input (effort) and output (results).
20% effort gives 80% results. 40% effort gives 96% results (80% + 80% of remaining 20% results = 80% + 16% = 96%). After that, another 20% effort only yields 80% of the remaining 4% results, or about 3.2% added to the first 96% results (= 99.2%). And so on an so forth.
Putting in more than about 50% effort expends a lot more energy for minimal results (Law of Diminishing Returns).
Sometimes you need 99% results (A+) = 60% effort. Often 96% will do fine (A) = 40% effort. In much of corporate America, 80% results is the norm (solid B minus, with just 20% effort, or about 8 hours of a 40 hour work week).
Good stuff, as always, Derek.
I live this!
I live a double life - world of law (paralegal) by day and musician the rest of the time. FABULOUS advice, which I can attest to as I work through this wonderful life I choose. Amazing how everything gets done, even when I am hands off for awhile. Still driven though. Great food for thought and action Derek - as usual. Thanks!
This really is great advice, Derek, thank you!
Some of us are driven with our type A personalities. It's not a bad thing being hyper, it helps keep our weight down and gives us exercise. As you say calmness has its benefits also: relaxation, calmness, less stress and a feeling of peacefulness. I think the best of both worlds would be to strike a happy medium between the two.
Derek, this is so helpful to a lot of aspiring creators and goal setters out there. I always wanted to run long distances but realized I am a great walker. I am still able to get great results, talk on the phone, and keep my breathing and heart healthy with walking. I get more time in with the exercise because I enjoy it. If I'm tired, im not motivated to get doing something long. However, with walking and slowing down the pace, I am building my endurance and enjoying the experience while getting it done.
You can execute and enjoy the experience. No rush. Thanks Derek...:)
Love it..... great reminder...
B
Live saving advice! Same idea applies to teaching, whether children, adults...or animals. When an instructor gets stuck on applying a certain lesson in a particular way, the results are often less than satisfying. If plan A isn't working, shift to B. Which may be going to sit out on a sunny spot of lawn with the class and telling stories.
nice!
By doing things in a relaxed frame of mind, one generates energy which makes the useful day longer giving one more time because one gets tired later in the day. So as a result doing things slower allows more time in the day which means one gets more done faster.
Thank you, Derek. As usual, insightful and helpful to virtually all of us!
Same thing has happened to me, with running.
: )
No. Your unconscious and muscle memory were trained long enough to achieve results without conscious effort, in this case 15 miles. This wouldn't work when doing something new.
Long time ago, I'd done yoga classes for a year. After the first few months, I noticed that I could , right in the middle of tough twisty poses that would leave me gasping, relax my core and melt into the pose.
After two-three years of no yoga, whenever I try those poses, and consciously relax _into_ them, I find that the magic doesn't work.
I have to conclude that relaxing on top of much practice leads to different results.
If I wanted to get a book out of it, I'd call it "Winner's wind" , sorta like second wind , or even "Practicer's Plane of Coasting" ,- the insight being that after lots of practice , you can coast semi-deliberately through whatever routine you are aiming to do, and still be 9x % effective.
And after a certain point, you can do better with the mind out of the way. (see Alan Kay video on Timothy Gallwey teaching tennis - originally linked by Kathy Sierra in her podcast titled "How to kick ass")
Haha I need to take a lesson! This is very true and the most important part of the ride is the experience , not making the destination in record time. Great life lesson to be applied to everything in life.
Gracias!
Laura
Great article and metaphor on how we should put life in perspective Derek. Like in all good metaphor I hear different lines. Another one I like is: "change brings happiness" yet another one "The bike didn't care either way" (sometimes social media could be the bike ;)
When all is said and done...more is always said than done.
There is a quote by Tony Robbins that goes something like this:
--- Don't mistake motion for achievement. And don't mistake achievement for fulfillment. ---
Sometimes the thing we think that pushing ourselves harder and harder is actually getting us somewhere but we are just caught up in the push and the doing, if we can learn to f%#ing chill and lean to PLAY again (instead of "WORK") we can find fulfillment. Kids have it figured out pretty good.
: )
seagull shit in the mouth makes the story LOL
Well Mr. Derek,
You actually had it right both times ., only by pushing yourself can you test your limits practice does make perfect of the second part if you realized that you actually aren't doing anything at all that is actually all the creation of the divine and that he to be God is the director of it all we can also be an inspiration of the beauty that is mother nature that is God
Ajay...
P.s. So the real question is who is exactly "I" that you refer to?
Is it your body is it your mind is it the spirit?
Pps thats enough for now,time to watch Furious 7
Profound insight and helpful to those of us who try to hard with
little results. I'm just gonna kick back this weekend and take a long walk on the beach as I look up in wonder at the blue sky and the pelicans overhead.
Apparently there is some truth to "take time to smell the roses". Work effectively, but enjoy the ride!
I still struggle with this same issue. Driving: rather than notice where I am and what is happening (used to be called safe driving) I go fast and push through. Getting that extra feet of pavement is satisfying. When I get off the freeway, if I remember, and look, I often notice that the cars I passed come by within the time it takes for me to stop. So maybe I gained 10-20 seconds travel time for all the effort.
For me the bigger issue of this same topic is when I do it with others: employees and clients. I "know" what they are going to say and internally create stress with my internal dialogue about how they can just shut up and let me do it. My ongoing inner work is to let go and let the world run itself, instead of fighting the fact that it is not going to respond to my thoughts and judgements.
I remember telling a friend of mine, while I was sitting in the passenger seat of his car, "why are you going 75? Do you realize that if we go 55 we'll be there at 8:15....if we keep going at your speed we'll get there at 8:11." And so? He slowed down to 73 and we got there at...8:12. Of course, we were suppose to be wherever we were going by 6.
This is a great piece that shows you that you can relax your way to clearer vision and success and it will be much better then overworking your way to a stressful result.
You once again have shown everyone how the ability to be successful and creative applies to your need to use that same ability on yourself!
Thanks for caring and sharing!
Much Love,
John Luongo
Great article Derek! I'm sorry to hear about the pelican shit ha ha that sucks. I'd consider myself a pretty driven guy and I find that on a daily basis, I argue with my instinct to not get overwhelmed and burn myself out with whatever task I'm doing. What you said about the extra "effort" being unnecessary stress added on top to make you feel like you're doing your best is definitely something that hit's home for me. It's nice to hear someone else bring it up. Good stuff!
Great thoughts as usual.
Thank you.
Slow & easy wins the race.
Excellent! But then again, most of your articles are just that. Thanks for the insight. Simplicity is the shortest distance between two points.
A few years ago I was living in an environment that caused me to want to rewrite a once popular bumper sticker as follows: "Practice random acts of impatience and senseless urgency".
My thought? You're awesome! I quite agree. Thank you for reminding me it can be easy.
Beautiful lesson! Life is so much better when we can balance initiative and drive with being in the moment and place and appreciating the inexplicable
miracles of life and consciousness.
I always enjoy your articles , my 101 year old client tells me the same Advice!
Thanks, Derek. I thoroughly enjoy your posts. Relaxing today instead of driving towards a distant goal which will cause me to drive towards a distant goal.... Be well, and change the world by simply being who you are.
Right On!
Great words and perfectly timed for me. Thanks!
I love this blog post! I always say that stress is all in your head. You can choose to worry and stress and push and push. Or you can choose to be present and enjoy the ride. Either way, you arrive at your destination. But do you arrive happy, or exhausted?! It is a practice, to drop the stress from your mind. But as with anything, with practice we get better and better at it. Thanks Derek, I always enjoy your writing!
I agree. I do find that when launching a new product that an extra hard full force push does help, but you can't maintain that forever or you'll end up in the hospital. I know I've done that.
Relaxing and easing off and looking at what is working or not working in your business is needed or you wind up pushing your business and life uphill constantly.
Very true. Thanks for the post!
When you do things for pleasure without "you must because....", that is a head decision and not body wish, things flow easily and effortless . Body/ heart timing is the wait to live in harmony with your Being and therefore with the fifth dimension vibration. That is the way to live in the new Earth. Fantastic reflexion you had with your experience of the Now😄😘🙏🏻
Just being curious: did that road include any traffic lights etc that could stop you, or you could just ride all the way with the pace you wanted?
I bike to work everyday, tend be as fast as I can*, I think I'll try a chill ride.
* still enjoying it: biking to work makes me feel I'm in a small town even in the downtown of a big city.
I've thought the same thing from my bike. Now to apply it to my life.
Great post Derek, it's amazing how that works for so many things we do.
I have experienced it in both business & sports, it's great reminder that pushing pass certain levels doesn't always pay off that much. In fact many times it actually causes us to do worse, we make more mistakes, we bruise relationships and like you explained we put our minds in a negative state that cancels out any real benefits.
Anytime you want to bike together we can take turns drafting and get that down below 40min. ;)
Scaling back the anxiety provides more clarity and enhances the experience. Mellowing out a little to actually enjoy the experience is better than constantly trying to BEAT THE CLOCK. kinda wonderful how "life" can contribute its own energy to ours. Thanx!
brilliant. a perfect example of how fast pace life only allows us to miss all the beauty of it. thanks derek.
Very Very Very GOOD Message for all of us. Thank you for reminding me of this as I am working on CD #21 with my American Indian Style flutes. Blessings always and thank you for sharing this. Take care always and look forward to your words down the road.
I believe this system that we are born into is much to blame for the "no time to relax" mentality. We are pushed from childhood to accomplish as much as possible in the shortest amount of time, and this continues into adult hood after entering the work force and heading towards retirement. We have been brainwashed to feel guilty when we are not busy being a productive member of society, or when we take too much time to complete a task. I guess our mortality (deteriorating health and rapidly aging) also has something to do with why most of us are not able to just relax, slow down, and enjoy live. There's so many things we want to do and see before we grow old and die. For most however, those goals are sadly put on the back burner and come secondary after putting in X amount of hours and years of working to pay the bills. Take away.... Live now! Relax.... Be a Derek!
Derek
So true! It's funny I read this right before my hour bike ride in SF that I usually throttle pretty hard.
You connected to my core on this post. Thanks for such quality work... and simple but rich introspection.
Best,
Peter
Thanks Derek! If we all slowed down we would be able to experience our lives more clearly and thus more meaningfully.
i found that by taking my time on "work" i make less mistakes, get to know my customers because im not rushing them off the phone or out the door so i can get back to work, AND i'm like 77% more sexually attractive because the world can look like it's crumbling around me and im here just eating a papaya.
AMEN!!! This is always something I try to do, but getting another perspective on it is always welcome and reminds me to calm down. Thank you so much for this, Derek!
Thanks Derek, thought-provoking and encouraging!
In a race, that extra effort is a must.
But life is not a race
Great stuff here man. It's often said we need to slow down to speed up... I say forget speeding up, how about we just slow down to enjoy the ride. Loved your last line too... "ineffective stress added on top of something to make it feel like I’m doing the best I can." Holy shit - makes perfect sense. Thanks again for this, you're awesome man... Cheers!
we type a's tend to forget that we are not our work, that we are not defined by our goals, and that it is not the destination but rather the journey that matters. how can we go with the flow if we're huffing and puffing to maintain our course? here's to bird shit in your mouth, derek! xoxo
jenny
...loved this one, Derek! Both the inspiring content as well as the references to familiar geography.
Thanks for these wonderful posts!
Best,
–Matt
P.S. It's Marina Del "Rey".
Interesting piece......I've never been one to stress about anything or worry about anything until it was TIME to do so. I discovered years ago that taking your time to accomplish anything verses rushing through it, makes less mistakes and only loses a few minutes of time. A good example of that would be, driving 100 miles to a location going 90 MPH only gets you there about 10:00 earlier than going 65 MPH.
Is this message one of those , "one size fits all" ? I don't think so, because it sure does not fit ME . I wish it did . But , as you know Derek, I am twice your age, yes I am. What difference does that make,? You want know until you get there, then its too late. My philosophy , which I do not claim originality, is to do what you want to do at the moment you get the idea to do it . Then what ever it was that you wanted wanted to do it is a pleasure doing it. Simple ! Try it.
I do not know how this ties in to your message today. Oh! I know, I had a plant that needed re-potting, but I kept putting it off , then today , the thought again came to me, so I did it! And gee! It looks so good, I wished I had done it the first time the thought struck me .
I actually waited to read this when I had a moment.
Very inspiring. A Gem in every article.
Thank you. It added to an awesome friday..
After reading this I asked myself: What would the Dali Lama do? Ride till red in the face, or, sooth his way into action and maintain steady calmness? I choose the latter and I know it works, had I adopted the same approach years ago I would not have ruptured my Achilles' tendon. I'm forever reminded of how much GREATER life is when one slows down! There truly is nothing quite as fine as a decent crap on the head, from an overhead pelican. Well, smelling coffee is pretty good too.
Brilliant.
I climb to the summit of a volcano for sunrise here in Bali most weeks. As we run health and fitness retreats I get a lot of "how far, how high, whats the fastest time you've done..." type of questions.
I too can be intense, productive, full on.. my first climbs were suitably intense and focused, often arriving with burnt out legs, drenched in sweat.
These days my guests are surprised I don't time it, track how much energy I expend or how long it takes me to get back to my resting heart rate. I only think about the next step (its a rough path so its in my interest to consider each step carefully) and encourage them to do the same rather than "slaying the volcano"...
I use it as active meditation. I have learnt how to walk more lightly, reducing my energy output. My senses become more acute taking in every sight, sound and smell. I arrive at the top feeling alive. There's time for laughs on the way back down. Enjoyment and appreciation 100%. Effort level - now feels "effortless". Time - i would be surprised if I arrive 5 mins alter than the red faced version. Lesson learnt.
I will have go give some thought to the last paragraph to let it sink in as it must. But there's no hurry, I'll relax and take my time.
For many many years I have lived my life not being in a hurry that's how I drive the highways I keep far right and let all others speed away. I never cease to stop and smell the roses. I'm glad you came to your senses and are enjoying life's ride. Best Wishes to you Derek be well.
Great article. I can relate and yet so easy to forget when we are pushing ourselves with madness. Thanks Derek!
Thank you
I read something similar in Rich Roll's book Finding Ultra. Rich was a competitive swimmer at Stanford, and was used to practices where they pushed themselves till they nearly vomited. Later, when he got into running, he worked with a German trainer who had him dial it down a few notches. Can't remember exactly but it was something like 60% throttle vs. his usual all out. Elsewhere, I think from Chris McDougall, I read about the runner Barefoot Ted, who similarly used to go all out, then learned from the Tarahumare Indians how to ease back, so he would train no more than twenty-five miles a week. And finally, I'll close with a thought from Beryl Bender Birch's book, Power Yoga. Most of her clients were NYC runners, and her job as a Yoga instructor was to undo all the damage from running (tightness,etc).
YES!!! After years and years of driving myself to injury, lack of enjoyment, avoidance, and its attendant weight gain and misery, I have *finally* espoused this very approach. To see you write about it here boosts my commitment. Thank you.
Right on.
My own example: I made 100 videos in the past 5 months, through what I call "consistent casual action"...
medium.com/@georgekao/what-i-ve-learned-from-from-making-100-videos-and-blog-posts-66213fe6f660
If I had stressed out about this goal, I probably wouldn't have gotten even to 50 videos. Or if I did, it would've greatly strained my relationships and generally made me less happy. But instead I made the whole project natural and easy and got better results than I could've expected.
Derek,You can't argue with the math...thanks again for fun story.
Hi Derek
I have been thinking about the same thing these days. I am very driven as well and I am constantly trying different types of music on the flute. I accepted a job playing salsa jazz flute which I had never listened to. I assumed it would be easy
I have the concert on October 27 and just received the tunes a week ago. Because of all the layers of rhythms in percussion and lots of syncopation plus playing with a different sound with accents in different places I suddenly felt like a fish out of water. So I started telling everyone how scared I was of doing this concert as a soloist fronting the salsa las jazz band. Saturday and Sunday I practiced with salsa jazz recordings 6 hours each day and did not feel that I had made enough progress. This is an unheard of emotion for me in regards to flute playing and I realized I better just chill. So I lessened the hours I was working and actually began to enjoy the act of playing. Sometimes less is more.
You have made a wonderful discovery - that "time" as we know it is TRULY relative - to your mindset at the moment -and your feelings and your point of view.
BRAVO!
I read your story about your bike riding experience and I have to agree,that I miss allot when I am just focusing on the end result,in what ever I am doing. After all we are supposed to be "In The Moment" and gaining pleasure from the experience of "Doing" rather than "Being".Its all really simple what we take for granted sometimes and its also the step back,and a good deep breath that makes us realize that divine timing brings the true gifts.
I agree so wholeheartedly to all the comments especially Peter. ..when I retrospect I realizability I have become used to the stressed put feeling which has only resulted in elevated cholesterol and thyroid. ...Derek I will now consciously put my self into a 50% effort state...☺thanks...
I LOVE this one! I think it's so true. In stead of head down and powering on, look up and experience the moment... You'll get more out of whatever you are doing :) I think it's great that you included getting shit on. At the time probably not fun, but definitely memorable!
Very intriguing article, Its better to enjoy the task then race thru the task, another thing that I've come to realize is just letting your self go with the moments molds the moments into quality memories, not doing something while your minds occupied in other areas, it's not fair to friends to go out to dinner with them and the whole dinner your in your own head thinking about a paper that needs finished or what your going to say on the phone on a business call the next day, let your self go and enjoy every moment.
Derek,
I've followed your blog for years and have really appreciated your insights. This one, though, may be my favorite. It really touches on basic existential questions. Why do we do what we do, and why are we here? If we are biking, running, playing music, etc., with some sort of material/numerical goal in mind, we are going to suffer and struggle. If we do what we do in order to celebrate life (or more spiritually, to express God's qualities), we will always be successful and satisfied. One can't measure the joy you experienced on your relaxed ride, but it is far more important than shaving a second or minute or two off of your best time. The latter goal is a loser's game. There is only one best time, but there are a limitless number of joys to experience. I quit running races for time because I would have wonderful training runs where I felt the joy of speed and being alive, and then I would be disappointed with my time in the race. In fact I didn't even enjoy the experience of running in the race because I was so focused on getting a good time that I started out too quickly and soon exhausted myself. I think too of the times I have performed at farmers' market, playing guitar, harmonica and singing. I don't make a lot of money, but I feel such contentment looking up at the sky and thinking how blessed I am to be able to play my music in such a beautiful, friendly surrounding, meet new people, and hopefully spreading some happiness.
Thank you so much for sharing these thoughts.
☺ Thanks Guy — Derek
Great article, D. Tortoise and the Hare.
I agree with this. I think it becomes more obvious the older you get. Maybe we slow down because of age, but the great side effect is what you've described here. It's wonderfully counter intuitive, but so much is. In many ways this is variation of a very very old Zen walking meditation. Which is no bad thing at all!! Peace and best wishes, C.
As a small business owner I'm always switching roles, never really feeling like I'm giving 100% to each of them.
Your story was the perfect way to remind me that if I choose calm and relaxed over stressed and frazzled I'm sure to be way more productive and actually enjoy my day rather than feel like I'm running after it! Thanks Derek ~ your stories have become valuable tools that encourage, guide and inspire. You rock!!
Angela
I'm an electrician, and my partner and I have been learning this lesson at work. "Take a pause for the cause", we talk about what we're doing and the best way to do it. Stop and think. In our work, mistakes make you do 3x as much effort, so the reduction in them has been saving us time and making our lives easy.
Thanks for that! I'm going full on red-faced right now: working a full time job and building a business. But from January, no more job! :) That's when I will finally be able to dial it down. Focus on one important thing rather than two or more will certainly help.
Thanks Derek, This is a great reminder... of the importance of "Smelling the Roses!"
Derek you're AWESOME!! I'm still learning this. I've played guitar for 52 years and still play 3 hours or more every day. I always push it and run myself down but on the days I truly feel like playing it comes natural with less effort and is much more creative.
Stress can kill you. Appreciate the reminder to slow down and smell the roses as they say.
Reminds me of stereo equipment.
You can get a decent sounding amplifier for $200. That gets you let's say 90% fidelity which sounds good to most of us. For $500 it goes up to let's say 95%. For $1,000 it goes up to maybe 97% and for $10,000 it might go up to 99%. A lot of effort for a small increase in results.
Thanks Derek! Always like hearing from you. I could live without the memory of your
I feel the same way, Derek. I'm also driven and used to love being on the move a lot. Jet-setting, living in crazy busy cities, busting my ass trying to meet deadlines, every day. Alas, I feel I can get more done by stepping back to strategize, and get the same or more done by slowing down. P.S.: I love that you're blogging more again. :)
Both can be good. If you start fast you get some great exercise. If you start slow you may gain some great beauty. I see both as pluses. I wonder if slow will lead to fast but still seeing the beauty? Or will it lead to something else. I usually like going fast but with my wife I must go ultra slow. It can be boring but I am being with her and that is great as well.
Definately great to quantify things a bit. Somehow we are so caught up sometimes that we don't look objectively at things.
So true Derek.
It also goes back to the saying of
"Don't work hard, work smart". Or "the reward is in the journey, not the destination".
And I think that it is something we have to constantly remind ourselves, particularly if we are working towards a goal.
Regards,
Mark
Nice! Thank you for sharing. : )
I think the key knowing when to apply a method like this and knowing when its important to make the extra effort to be first. Comes with experience perhaps... and knowing the arena and dynamics your in and goal you want.
Sounds like you made the Shift! by the way The Shift, is a great movie by Dr. Wayne Dyer ! blessing, Tony
There's a wonderful time management book called The Power of Full Engagement by Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz (two olympic level swim coaches) that I highly recommend. They posit that it is managing energy, not time that is the key to high performance.
They talk about how in training, you don't want to go full out all the time, because by the time you get to the meet, you're too wasted. That you get much better performance if you go through most of your life at about 80% and save the 100% all out effort for the big stuff, the TED talk or the big performance or the major deadline.
For me, I'm really working on staying in "ease" vs. "efforting". Trusting the Universe to play her part in the manifesting. As long as I *show up* with a mindset of excellence, the rest will work itself out.
Yes! Great book. Here">sive.rs/book/PowerOfFullEngagement">Here are my notes. — Derek
Love it. I'm going to try this on the elliptical!
Eso es madurar! isn't it?!
Nice one Derek, reminds me of Thoreau's world. If only the earth would spin 50% slower and we could have time for each other. Thanks
This is so true after two heart attacks i know
Great insight! I'm thinking of all of the applications this can be used to experiment with.
I see another book in your future: "The novel taste of pelican shit", a book on maintaining superhuman gratitude and positivity.
What a great Life Lesson!
Too bad it takes so many of us years to discover the real meaning of our precise time on this earth and " enjoy the ride".
I think it's a lesson we all need to experience because it's actually hard to believe. I hope it's true. I'm gonna try it. Unfortunately, I've kinda been going 50% in the last few months, so I'd have to ramp up to experience this phenomenon.
Derek,
Thanks so much for sharing and so well written. Life is about enjoying yourself while enjoying / taking in the world around you!!
Please take good care and keep smiling and sharing!!!
Frank and Kathy
This is very real and true. I need to adopt this pose more often than not. Thanks for sharing this epiphany.
I have a lot of experience seems like that.
The first experience was when I fall down from my bicycle... and my bicycle pedal got bend.
I tried to fix it... push myself to fix it... cause I think when I push myself "just doing", the things will get fixed faster.
Yet 3 hours endeavor passed... and my bike pedal still bend... I thought it impossible to fix it without bicycle equipments.
Then I sat down to think... to look at my bike... thinking how the mechanical bicycle works n pedal movements.
After 5 minutes thinking, I punched my pedal 3 times... and the problem fixed.
I spent 3 hours for nothing, but fixed the problem just in 5 minutes thinking and 3 punches.
Slightly, I run to my laptop and wrote : "Thinking and Analysis"
I always use that principle to enjoy every activity and fixing the technical problems.
Love it! Law of diminishing returns right there - 50% more effort for 4% return. Good lesson for all of us in business and life.
Wow, never looked at this way!
An unbelievable eye opening, for me :)
Leave it to you to derive something positive from an experience that involves a bird shitting in your mouth! Derek, there something about you that just touches the heart. Thank you for years of jewels! You truly are remarkable.
I think Derek when you have accomplished a certain challenges in your life, you look for other challenges or you get bored ! I think you have a lack of interest when you have successfully accomplished a goal ! I say, ride on my friend, in different directions, ride on !
Thanks for sharing Derek, minus the bird shtting in your month, that was a great read haha - Wonder what the metaphor could be for the Bird Shit??
So absolutely true!
I feel the same about bass solos..50% and much less notes can have the same impact on the crowd....
Thank you for your sharing.
Kind regards, Stefan
This article came to me at just the right time. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and discoveries.
Very nice article. Take time to smell the roses and notice the sunsets. Less supreme effort means fewer mistakes and a more enjoyable conclusion.
Thanks
It does show hurry is an attitude. But I think deliberately going slow has value, too. I created a program for adults to help the adults help children connect to nature. The program was called "Nature University". In the first class, we practiced slowing down, using techniques such as being blindfolded, and practicing "Owl Eyes", "Deer Ears" and "Fox Walking". I learned these techniques years ago from Tom Brown Jr. and Jon Young, who have both written books on the subject of connecting to nature. I used to hurry through nature . Then I learned the slower you go, the richer the experience.
I have to admit that's interesting buy yet a little hard to believe. Perhaps maybe some muscle memory had to do with it or practicing that run over and over again. As being a musician practicing the same song becomes automatic and requires less concentration and causes me to relax a bit more.
Hi, Derek, I live in a former (well 2 paper makers still operating) mill town, on a slope on the west coast of British Columbia. There is a hilly street around the corner. I go down it to reach the mall to get groceries or eat supper out. I have HATED going back up that hill. I'm a senior who's trying to get fit and that hill is a struggle. Well, was. Until about a month ago.when I made a discovery. I pushed hard, with short steps, so I wouldn't wear myself out. But I discovered that, if I slowed down and lengthened my stride, I was less puffed out at the top of the hill. I'm still amazed how much difference it made. - Marian Kemp, Powell River, BC, Canada
Very encouraged!
A wonderful insight. This will be my focus this week.
Thank you.
It's good to be reminded about the affects of useless stress.
I tried to share the awareness and love of details with my kids.
The awe in the simple.
Did you see the news this morning that a Michigan farmer found a Wooly Mammoth while tiling his farm field?
He gets to keep it if he wants.
It was anchored at the bottom of a pond with 3 rocks.
Slowing down we can see so much more without any effort.
Great revelation on your part.
Great story! I compare it to driving to a destination and passing everyone on the highway to get ahead, getting stressed out when someone passes you or gets in front of you blocking your way...and guess what? Statistics say you save seconds, possibly a minute or two, and get all stressed out for nothing! Better to enjoy the ride and the view and get there a few seconds later with a better attitude!
Thanks for sharing this story!
right on! thank you, Derek!
This is so where I am right now, bro. Left Los Angeles to chill & work way less at our family farm in MS thru the end of the year. And guess what...my life hasn't fallen apart. I'm healthier & happier. I'm getting really attached to this "less crazy effort, more life" thing. So much to learn...
Thanks, really liked this.
yes!
Hey Derek:
Once again, you said a mouthful! Me and all my type A friends need to hear this. It's about the process not the goal, but so easy to forget. Thanks again for your storytelling, intelligence and inspiration. Will forward this on to a few others. Keep up the great work. The planet needs you!
Derek,
I loved your post. I can relate to it. I run and have been training for a half marathon. I used to feel I needed to push myself to do the 'big' races in order to feel I was getting something worthwhile out of my exercise. I tend to do my long training run at the weekend, but the night before, I don't sleep well, for stressing about the run, then when I get up, I find myself procrastinating before finally leaving the house. The run feels like a chore. With reluctance, I decided to pull out of the half, something I've never done before and which I feel is somehow a 'bad' thing to do. Soon after making the decision, on a recent weekend away, I set out for a leisurely jog - I headed off with no set plan, no GPS measuring my distance, no timer telling me how fast (or slow) each km was. I found a beautiful deserted beach and did some sprints for the sheer joy of it. Got back, feeling exercised, relaxed and uplifted all at the same time and found that I had run for an hour without even realising it. Wonderful
Wonderful post Derek, it's a hell yeah!
Life in big cities is all about the rush. And we are all so obsessed with dates, deadlines and goals, that we just forget to enjoy the ride. And happiness is there, hitchiking...
I had a similar experience. In the Army we had to run 2 miles for our PT tests. I wanted to wanted the best time I could get. I ran it as hard as I could and when I finished, I collapsed, panting. The next time, I decided I wanted to still be able to walk after the run. I finished just 14 seconds slower. All the extra effort and made very little difference in time and a huge difference in how I felt at the end. I've drawn on this experience anytime there is an event and people want to respond immediately, frantically, and all-out. Pacing matters. Making sure you can still breathe matters. Pushing so hard that you lose perspective won't gain you much and gives you no chance to look around to make sure you're going in the right direction.
That bike doesn't even look like it has many speeds! No wonder it's so exhausting.. esp. hills. Yes I have a LONG way to go in economy and efficiency of movement in about everything, but I naturally move fast(and usually continuously) because of restless legs syndrome and as a way of getting alot done at least domestically, otherwise I feel it would take forever. Tho Mostly I don't have the self command..I feel like everything's controlling me, so that wears me out alot faster.
Thanks, Derek. Going to immediately put this in to practice. In my case, I run around so stressed trying to get shows started, I neglect to say "hi" to friends until I'm done. Well, the shows can now start 5 minutes late. I'm gonna take time to shake some hands, say "hello" and give out some hugs.
Thank you for reminding me of this. Sometimes I forget to enjoy the trip. Your last line "ineffective stress added on top", that clarified my suspicions, I`m in that mode a little too often.
That's an amazing insight Derek, and astounding how small the difference in time was - thanks for sharing it.
In 80/20 running the authors suggest running 4/5 runs at a pace where you can hold a decent conversation and only 1/5 full out. That advice has helped me sustain running and keep my fitness and weight consistent rather than giving up! Enjoying exercise most of the time is the way to go!
Totally get it. I've noticed it too.
But I think a part of me is drawn to those fast, balls out situations. I love the race.
Sometimes I wonder if procrastination is self-inflicted? Let the clock run out so I have a challenge. Boring trip to the supermarket? Not if it needs to be done in seven minutes.
It gives a good idea! Thank you so much!
This is more or less what Tim Ferriss' 'Minimum Effective Dose' is all about.
You get to about 90% of the result with not much effort. The last 10% takes forever.
Then again, that last 10% is what matters for professionals at anything. But the investment overshadows the results for regular types.
Thanks for the realxing revelation Derek !
True That !
joyafterfifty blogger on activerain
but the feeling on that day was only he feeling on that day because you compared it to the effort on previous days ! had you done it in a relaxed way (50%) everytime, your time would have been 77mins everytime (untrained muscles can't pedal full speed) and on the day you decided to relax, you would have sat on a bench for 77 mins watching the gulls. all the artists i know who are driven get the job done. the ones who aren't driven often sit on a bench and talk about a job that they think someone else will get done for them (a luck break) - it never gets done... i reckon pushing hard is as important as being relaxed. both. not either or.
Thank you Derek, great observation.
But I would add that this only works if you're good at whatever you are doing -- bicycling in this case. The worse you are at something, the bigger the gap between "going all out" and "taking it easy" will be.
Love this article. Have been trying to slow down myself. My sister Genai recommended reading you and I was glad I took the time. By the way the Greeks think bird shit on you is good luck!
love your way
remembering my song with your video riding a bike
www.youtube.com/watch?v=qUGWEMFhy3o
thanks so much for the insparetion
This is the first your article I've ever read. I'm really impressed by your style and especially the end!
I'm not good at sports, but I like the Nature and think the whole idea is great.
I'll definitely try to find another articles written by you in the Internet.
Good luck!
I've noticed this with showering. With all the drought in CA, and the admonition to take shorter showers, I tested it one day. My stressed-out hurry-up shower takes about 4 min, and my normal "do the cleaning thing but don't linger" takes 5 min. I'm not sure how much water I'm saving in ONE minute, but I know I'm saving lots of stress when I don't worry about it, which makes me WAY more effective as a human for the rest of the day.
I love this story. And I won't forget it. What a great experience. I've noticed that when I'me happy at home, the same thing happens. I just start picking up the house, with no agenda and no hurry. I find that I'm completely productive and efficient when I'm happy and have no agenda. I will think about this idea in the rest of my life, too! Thank you!
Thank you for the story. It's really nice. I'm glad you dialled back and smell the roses, which is what a lot of people (including me) need in this mad rush what we call life.
Cheers.
Derek ~ I love the finish here~ "doing the best i can" ~ and now a new spin on that for me ~ add relax.
Oya
Love <3. Thank you.
It's hard for me to understand English,but I tried my best . I
I have come to realize that I have one speed. I have become more deliberate, thoughtful, efficient, easier to be around. Thanks for sharing!
What a great photo! Your message is equally meaningful.
Well Sir, you have the most close to the heart first hand personal information to draw from when you are stressed and feel like rushing around. Its amazing that the easy-does-it method has conserved your energy and has a timing that is not much different than the express racing bike strategy. I am sure this little gem of self knowledge will stand you in good stead and is an inspiration to others. Thank you.
LOL! It's so true. My friends and family have always called me "Gator" because I'm always walking, riding, surfing slower than anyone else but always arrive on time. You gotta smell the smells, hear the birds, see the sun rise and set. It's part of the story I share in my "Journey of Life" show. Derek, you have always been an inspiration. Thank you, Steve
On several occasions, when I see a car fly by me on the road, I have made similar comments to my newly licensed son… (A secret teaching lesson, without preaching at him)
I comment how silly it is when people are making a 10 or 15 minute commute, and they speed by 10 or 15 miles per hour.
Mathematically, they only arrive at their destination, maybe… 30 to 60 seconds earlier, while risking a speeding ticket, increased insurance rates, and causing danger to others on the road.
I will now remember this in my business life as well.
Thanks Derek!
Hey Derek, I have slowed down a lot for the same reason minus the pelican drop.
Great analogy Derek. This line is key " Which, of course, makes me realize that much of my effort apparently wasn’t effort at all, but just ineffective stress added on top of something to make it feel like I’m doing the best I can." I bet 100% of us can relate to what you said here. So if this sounds so practical is it common practice? That's the next question to ask. I personally find mindfulness to be a powerful tool in how I relate to my to-do list. I make a point to check in with what I am thinking, how I am feeling and the way I am breathing. I also follow a to-be list. How do I want to be in the world today? Hyper, excited or calm and happy? Try adding a to-be list next to your to-do list and see what happens
Nice! I up on that beach my friend, Venice Beach to be exact. Up or down, I've never grown tired of it, even in my travels to other lands/beaches I'm blessed to say it is still my front yard! Be well.
Relaxing for the same result is one way to look at it, another way to look at it is that investing 110% effort / time / money will produce abysmal results without proper technique.
Being deeply intimate with the subject of cycling I know first hand where you're coming from and I can only encourage you to go the route that keeps you excited so that you don't quit. With time you'll figure out (or study) how to get better results as well.
I try to take it easy everyday which is quite hard work. 😆 Also don't forget we are all heading in the wrong direction ! 😳 Always good to hear from you,
si
The pelican line made me laugh. I look forward to your blog posts and love your insights. This post caught my attention because my bucket list goal is to live on the beach in Santa Monica right next to that bike path.
Nice post! One alternate interpretation is that we have the capacity, when needed, to gain the extra 4%. That may mean a raise, completion of a project on time or getting done early at the office and hitting the trail on your bike!
Love reading your blog. Keep up the good work. Seize the day!
Less is more. A timely piece at this stage in my life. thank you for the reminder to enjoy the views too during my daily biz dev.
Thank you for this insight. I can learn from your experience!
And its how stress impacts those around you.
My wife and I have a lovely, relaxing little business where we scoop ice cream from our old tricycle. sometimes we cater events and I've needlessly rushed to load the van or stressed about arriving on time when we have time to spare.
My wife has far more patience, necessitated by how multiple sclerosis slows her physically. She's accepted things take time and I've now adopted her perspective, because there is no need for my stress however small to reduce her happiness.
Stress has a negative ripple effect. why hurt others?
Taking it easy is always great advice for me. I tend to stress and push it too hard sometimes. I find that accepting the challenge at hand, wether it is work or other, has a lot to do with this concept of relaxing.
I was just under quite a bit of pressure at work last week, having to pull an all nighter. And just relaxing and accepting what had to be done really helped me come through and getting the job done.
Thank you for sharing, Derek. As always, fantastic insight.
"Arrive Inspired, Not Dog Tired"
- the tag line for the old Green Tortoise bus service.
Brilliant!
Thanks for sharing, Derek. Such a refreshing read.
Hi Derek
Absolutely. Our new blog is called 'Enjoy Life Slowly' - I use to have the same experience but then took up ultra long distance cycling and found that if you didn't ease up, you were finished. And it made practically no difference to the time taken. Enjoy life slowly and get more done!
Sometimes all you need is to take a breather while at the same time taking it all in. After all, it's all about the journey, right?
As Pogo said," the hurrieder I go the
be-hinder I get!"
Great illustration of easy does it is better than overdoing it"
Love it. I'm a runner and I have had the same experance .. Thanks for sharing
In a world of rush and messages that compete for my attention, this message got through. Thanks Derek
U made me think of my study routine. I couldn't catch up after 2 yrs of playing around and taking it seriously. So now I sacrifice my sleeping time to get done wif wt I have left. Sometimes
This made me smile. I can definitely apply this to my life. 96% is pretty darn good! ☺
Wonderful post :) Enjoying your site, so much loveliness.
Great article. Something to strive for.
Awesome article, thanks!
How come there are no "share" buttons for FB/Linkedin etc.?
Interesting how we learn from an everyday experience with a slight change of perspective.
Nice comparison of both scenarios of overwhelming approach n relaxed approach and at the end of day the relaxed approach yield similar result well in terms of time, but that relaxed approach was done in a less overworked mindset nice, approach things in a more relaxed mindset is the way to go!
This should be posted on the freeway at traffic hours
I recently retired from driving 5 ton truck for 17 years to do my music and art full time. Lately I have noticed I'm feeling panic in regards to money. So I've made myself busy! Getting nowhere. Spinning top. So lately I've just been quiet, be still and draw, be still and play, work out and as this is what my soul wants, my footsteps have been true and the opportunities now have the room to enter. So, 50% less stress and 150% more accomplished.
I'm in a competitive area, the World championship is right around the corner and I've been pulling out my hair, my progress has slowed indeed my performance has slid backward recently though I've worked just as hard as ever. A friend sent me this link. I'm taking a few days off then getting back into it, doing the same work but just trying to keep cool along the way. It was a great article and might just make a real difference for me, seeing this at just the right time for a change in perspective. Thanks for this interesting and inspiring article.
Derek...just reread this and realized that I was starting to go through that "all or nothing" mentality!! Thank you again for your wisdom!!!
Yip, I've some way to go to get there as I generally try do whatever I do well. I know people who to me seem to do business things for the sake of doing them. They'll be up early and late doing things they could have done in the middle of the day if they only calmed down and worked effectively. I call it wheel spinning.
Thank you, Derek, for a lesson that I need to hear again. Just chill' and enjoy....I'll get the same results with half the stress.
Just thinking about how I can incorporate this into my 2016 plan...
Happy New Year!
I might try that
thanks you
love this
Makes me want to go for a bike ride when I get out of work this morning. Problem is I live in Michigan so we are in the dead of winter right now. I was thinking how lucky to be able to ride along the ocean coast. I'm able to ride along the coast of one of the Great Lakes, Lake Erie. My ride is about 15 miles round trip also. Wish I could do it year round. Great story, and something to think about,thanks Derek
More Stress = Less Life
I've been doing this for years. I wish more people understood this. Unfortunately, it's still "the American way" to appear productive by always going full tilt. Fortunately, I've been able to sway at least a few people to relax and not stress out. It's fun when they realize they're actually more productive than before.
Great story and reminder Derek - it does all somehow get done.
Very nice comparison!
I also like the fact that when you go too fast in life in general, you don't take the time to enjoy what's happening around you.
I have just discovered your blog, and wow, what a great find.
Thanks for that great post, Derek. :)
Waaw very nice example..here in jordan people always stress because the same reason.
I stumbled on this myself a few years back, but didn't have a good story to describe my findings. More of just a feeling. Thank you for documenting your story. I've already passed on at least 5 times in the past week. (first heard on Tim Ferris podcast)
First heard this in your podcast with Tim Ferriss's. Made me think...that other 50% that returns only 4% additional benefit is just the difference between "work" and "flow." When anything becomes work, you are out of the flow and it's time to either dial it back or do something else. Thanks for the great insight.
I enjoy this story, first heard you tell it to Tim Ferriss.
I just finished a half marathon, and I caught myself snickering at all the people with headphones, watches and iphones. Each mile they would check their time, change tracks on their iphone, etc.. I had no phone, no watch, just shorts, a shirt and sneakers.
I absolutely engaged myself in the experience, the bands playing every mile, the kids from the local Childrens Hopspital giving high fives, and all the motivational signs people were holding. I had never had such a 'runners high' and an overall great time running 13.1 miles in my life (to be fair, that is the farthest I had run to that point).
The result, I finished the race under 2 hours and 10 minutes, which put me above 50% of all runners. I was extremely satisfied and also felt fantastic after the race.
I'm new to your site (got here via Seth's post today) and have been devouring everything - love the animations, enjoyed re-watching the TED dancing guy film, but this is my favourite - love this post. Perfect for where me and my business is at. Thank you
Great blog post Derek, thanks. Really brings home the importance of
enjoying and cherishing what you're doing in the moment..... Otherwise what's the point?
This should be compulsory reading to all my fellow Londoners! If they knew the futility of their effort, perhaps they would stop pushing others out of the way because they have "somewhere important to get to", thus making the tube a scary place for all vulnerable users (elderly, children, pregnant women, less able bodied people etc).
Great observation. I do wonder though if this is true for you partly because you've been driven most of your life so that 50% of your effort is still like 300% of someone like me who has trouble with motivation.
Perfect!
Goodness. I am so glad I found this blog today. I've been eating your articles up, but this....yeah, this one was definitely for me. Thank you for not keeping this insight to yourself. I really needed it right now. Best wishes.
-Ramon
Such a simple concept and so true. The additional stress we create for so little gain can make us tired and prevent us from getting the results we desire. It needs to be fun and when you enjoy doing it you are more likely to continue and to succeed. Thanks Derek
I totally related to your story in many scenarios- the one that comes to mind is driving my daughter to school. I will take her to school for programs, conferences, and random days. It usually takes about 8 minutes. One day we were late and I hurried and drive fast and I ran a red light and was in too big of a hurry... I only got to her school 1 minute faster... So I really connected to your story...
At some point, our society decided it was very important to "look busy". The internet made this a truth by adding exponential tasks to our everyday to-do list.
Along with the studies showing that multi-tasking hurt results; we just end up looking busy while accomplishing less, I will be adding this great post to my proofs to eradicate societies love of looking busy.
Thanks for this, Derek. As always, your posts are game-changers.
Sending my best.
Hi Derek, thanks for writing this excellent piece of article... i really liked it... Even i have experienced the same in typing class..... i really liked the typing as well as there were no computers in my village... with full of enthu, i go to that class.. but if i start my typing lesson in a hurry, that day was definitely practice goes with full of mistakes and as much paragraphs of mindful speed... the first minute is important, if i get through that initial minute peacefully, mindfully, slowly, etc, that day was greatly enjoyed day....
though i learned this in my early age, i could not relate that this is basic for all the activities of life.... that's why i struggled a lot in life... anyways those struggles also gave a new thoughts....
at the age 36, i almost quit my unwanted IT job and going for a life to fulfill my "Bucket list" activities... of course, along with little works...
I think this post is perfect.
"I"was missed in the sentence "I think had mentally linked it..."
Wow! Thank you for telling me. Fixed now. — Derek
wow, i love it. so simple yet not so simple.
Great article Derek, and so true!
Thank you for sharing your insight! A great lesson as I celebrate 65th birthday!
I noticed the same thing! I ascribe it to the 80/20 rule, which applies big-time to exercise.
For years I was a slave to "intensity!" Every lift had to be maximum effort; every set, to failure.
When the gains stalled, I backed off on maximum efforts and focused on form and feeling. I still sweat and strain, but not to grotesque levels. The results? I'm leaner, fitter, and less sore in the joints and tendons. And I crave workouts instead of vaguely dreading them.
Wow Awesome post!!!
It is a great message. Advocating the age old preaching of enjoy what you do instead of racing without any purpose.
Thanks for your article. My intuition keeps telling me to slow down but I rarely listen!
Xx
truly inspirational wow love it
I read a story once about how an executive took is family on vacation to a cabin with ZERO technology. Even the phone was an old rotary phone.
During this vacation, the executive planned to meet up with another family to go into the city for a baseball game. The executive was getting anxious to get hold of his friend, but couldn't get cell service. He finally resolved to use the old rotary phone and cursed at it the entire time he dialed the number. CURSED!
Then realized he was acting irrationally. So he decided (after the phone call) to re-try dialing his friend's phone number and timed how long it took to do it on the rotary phone. It was 12 seconds.
He then locked his cell phone, timed how long it took for him to find his friend's contact info and dial. It was 7 seconds.
Slowing down and ridding yourself of anxiety is not easy for the fast-paced and always-on-the-go minded. But stories like yours and this one here remind us that shouldering self-imposed anxiety while doing a task is not the same as giving our best effort.
Goodness, I love this!
Thanks for the article.
I like how so many are so delighted to have found this out on their own, while of course others are delighted to find the concept for the first time.
I won't give examples of my own use of the concept, but I do want to add something:
Feeling like I have time to be calm and courteous is wonderful, and just as empowering as feeling I have time or money to help others.
And I can't resist adding I like comment #93 saying "if I sped read I would have missed this gold."
Having grown up before computers I side with Yoda on that one: "Either read or do not, there is no skim."
(That's a very old quotation of his, that I just now made up)
It was nice to re-read this, and some of the comments.
Here's another metaphor:
Remember those old cartoon advertisements in the comic books where the boy had sand kicked in his face and would then go body build?
My brother sent away for the Charles Atlas bull worker, an isometric device with a scale to read how hard you were working. Of course kids want to work as hard as possible to get results as fast as possible—DON'T.
In the illustrated instructions, Charles said to back off to a lower scale reading, (to about 80 per cent as I dimly recall) and THIS is what you hold for your workout. Call it relaxing for a faster result.
As I write this, I miss that old bull worker.
Hi. I think it good.
I come back to this article time and time again. I have a daily reoccuring task in outlook that sits at the top of my to-do list each day and reads, "Relax for the same result." This one article that I read a few years ago has had the largest impact to my approach to work. Thanks Derek.
Cool! Thank you. — Derek
Actors and dancers, of course, learn to relax their whole body so they can be wholly present on stage.
Ballerina Summer Glau, in her role as a Terminator-robot in The Sarah Connor Chronicles (a situation tragedy I really liked) had to learn to do her fight scenes—robots throw each other around—without any facial expression.
I think if we can learn to relax our face muscles we will still get the same result: There is nothing magically helpful about screwing up your face or frowning while you are thinking hard or carrying something. There is nothing helpful about getting frown lines. Better to have smile lines.
Let's relax our faces for the same result.
There is this trick that you should try to UNDERACHIEVE what you regurlarly try to do. As an example, take sports again:
say you wanna start to jog. You go in full force, knowing that only red-faced running is good running.
Next time around, you usually have the impulse to do better than before, either run faster, or longer. In fact, you aim to overachieve.
Try the opposite: try to do less or just as much as the time before. It takes off the stress that comes with it and allows you to enjoy the activity more.
Or, as they say: 90% of success is just showing up and DOING something.
Yes! What if all the rushing and stress we thinking is necessary, is only an illusion? I recently took a road trip. The way there was frantic.. Rushed. Needed to catch a ferry... But, on the return trip, I took a very relaxed approach. Arrived only a few minutes later but with 50% more gas in the tank... Literally!!
Thank you for sharing this.
Same thing over here. Went crazy and 40 mins. Went 50% and see great things AND only 44 mins
Thank you!
Sounds like me. I've been practicing doing things with an easy attitude. It helps to stay in the moment rather than be thinking of the next thing and how long it's going to take me to get to it. Ugh! Ease is more fun.
Great post. Hi Derek (& John Paul) I noticed the same thing when I first had a sat nav. I realised that driving on the edge all the time, adrenalinised, stressed usually saved me, maybe 3 or 4 minutes max. no matter what distance. Lesson quickly learned, I went back to enjoying the journey and being with the car rather than thrashing it.
This is EXACTLY where I am with starting in a new career. I am beating myself up for not getting in every little thing I need to learn or do! So, I dropped it all looked at a Photoshop project I was watching by a very good teacher. Still stressed, but not burning myself down, and that is a relief.
That is a GREAT story. Its so effective and very well written.
I love this! I started dialing back on crazy-full-on effort a few years ago, and just being really focused and in the moment with my projects and it’s not only more enjoyable, but I’m not exhausted and overwhelmed when I’m done.
When I go home to visit my family, they are still very high strung and intense, and just trying to order/pick up dinner can become overwhelming.
I wish we all could learn to just relax and be in the moment more often. As a hiker (Appalachians), I understand the benefits of doing just that.
Looking forward to your daily paragraphs!!
I enjoyed this story and the message within. I will remember this lesson and employ it as I do have this drive in me that is exhausting. Pulling back a bit and taking the pressure off may help lower my blood pressure and still accomplish my task. Thank you.
Cannot thank you enough for writing/sharing this BRILLIANT tenet!! I think my horse is going to thank you, too...
Cheers!
Highly recommend Oliver Burkeman's book, Four Thousand Weeks (how much time we have, plus or minus a few), just published this year. Check out the table of contents. This post would fit right into it.
Still an amazing article. Been meditating on this all week.
When days like this happen, I'm thankful that cows dont fly.
Thanks for sharing this. Such a nice story!
I really enjoyed reading this article. It has a great message that resonates with me. I’ve learned a lot from it and I appreciate the insights and perspectives it offers. Thank you for sharing this valuable piece of writing.
Thank you! I'll look out for that. That article was probably life changing.
I do not know. I always have tried my best. I have never experienced the same result after relaxing.
From a wrestler’s (extreme sportsman) point of view, ı can say that, that two minutes is what makes the difference between an average sportsman and a professional one.
I dont support by the way. I also find idling better in long term.
Thank you for writing this! As I read this, I find myself in a situation with a lot of work to be done. I eased a bit when I went through this.
Good stuff!
Yes!!
I once had sort of a similar experience with a music gig.
The show was two sets, and during the first set, I was overwhelmed with self consciousness and self judgment, not feeling like I was delivering a good show.
It spiraled into one of the most uncomfortable performances ever, if not the most.
The band took a break between sets and I was much more comfortable for the 2nd set, cracking jokes, freely expressing physically, etc.
Afterwards, someone sent me the recorded show.
I sat down and hit 'play,' full of trepidation for how horrible watching this nightmare show would be.
And there I was, center stage, singing, full club.. and it was GREAT.
We were a well rehearsed powerful band, and we were ON.
I was saying out loud, 'This is FRESH.'
I couldn't believe it -- how had my experience been the exact opposite of how I was receiving it?!
I also watched the 2nd set -- guess what? It was less powerful. Yeah, I was funny, engaging with the audience verbally.. but the first set was contained power, intense, focused.
I learned: self consciousness IS consciousness, right? It's awareness of oneself.
I also learned: being uncomfortable (even on stage) is AOK. If not resisted, it's just an experience and has purpose, often to wake us up.
I too learned similarly to what you shared here -- I didn't have to try so hard.. with anything.
The Power is already there, and it comes through when I make myself available for it, which includes sort of not being there, and certainly works best (as artists or fighters or writers know) when relaxed.
And so with the 2nd set, where I was clowning around, the energy was more watered down, dispersed..
I've noticed my best work comes through when I'm not enjoying it, nor non-enjoying it.. it isn't about the process being a high, it's already here all the time, it's what I am: Life.
Thanks Derek..
Great example! Thank you. — Derek
Man, this article hits home! It totally reminds me of something Xue Zhaofeng said about exam scores. You know how students kill themselves studying to go from, say, 90% to 95%? They’ll pull all-nighters, stress like crazy, and wreck their mental health for that extra 5%. But here’s the kicker: in real life, nobody cares about the difference between a 90 and a 95. Both are A’s. That last 5% isn’t effort—it’s just panic masquerading as ambition.
Your bike story is the exact same thing. You were grinding for that 4% time difference like it was life-or-death, but all it got you was burnout and pelican poop in your mouth (hilarious, btw). Meanwhile, dialing back to 50% effort cost you almost nothing in results but gave you dolphins, joy, and energy to keep going.
It makes me wonder: how much of what we call “hard work” is just useless friction? Like when I reorganize my to-do list 3 times instead of just… doing the tasks. Or refresh my inbox every 2 minutes to “stay on top of things.” That’s not productivity—it’s performance art for my own anxiety.
Xue’s right: we’re terrible at calculating ROI on effort. Your 96% result for 50% effort isn’t lazy—it’s smart. Life’s not a sprint; it’s a 15-mile beach ride. If pelicans are gonna photobomb your journey anyway, might as well enjoy the view.
Thanks so much for sharing, Derek!
This beautiful story inspired me to adopt the following maxim for myself: whatever you do, do it with an abundance of time.
Such an easy way to turn any task from a chore to a pleasure!
I love this!
This is such a great example!
This is interesting and educational.
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I think that your 50% less effort the slow ride is based your perceived effort for that ride. Using your stated time and distance, the efforts for each ride are as follows:
Fast Ride: 15 miles in 43 minutes = 20.93 mph = 193w (2.8w/kg) for 150 lb rider on a flat course .
Slow Ride: 15 miles in 45 minutes = 20.00 mph = 170w (2.5w/kg) for 150 lb rider on a flat course.
Effort: the slow ride was 10.7% less than the fast ride.