Form Before Speed
When I was in second grade, I remember hurrying through my reading assignments so I could be the first one finished. I am sure I did not read every word of whatever story we were assigned. Thankfully, it did not impact my ability or desire to read. Still, that memory has stayed with me. Recently, I found myself reflecting on that early desire to be first and how much it contrasts with the way I approach things today.
On Mondays in December, my gym offers a workout called The 12 Days of Christmas. I will spare you the details, but the goal is to complete twelve challenging exercises. It is tempting to rush through them just to say you finished, even if that means sacrificing proper form. I consciously choose to focus on form, even when it slows me down. While I may not move as quickly, focusing on form allows me to get more out of each workout and, over time, accomplish more with each repetition of the series.
Why share this? Because the same principle applies far beyond the gym. We need to practice form before speed in both our personal and professional lives.
This time of year, especially, we are busy preparing for the holidays. The temptation is to rush through tasks just to get everything checked off the list. Yet there is often more meaning and more satisfaction in doing less with greater intention. It is better to decorate one tree beautifully, savoring the stories behind the ornaments, than to rush through the process to say two trees are done.
The same holds true in our professional lives. Crossing items off a to-do list feels productive, but rushing increases the likelihood of mistakes or incomplete communication with key stakeholders. Taking a more methodical approach, focusing on completeness, often saves time in the long run. We have all experienced the frustration of having to backtrack after moving too quickly. That kind of rushing not only reduces productivity, it can also affect our reputation, as others may begin to see us as less thorough or less thoughtful.
How often have you completed a task yourself rather than delegating it because it felt faster to do it than to teach someone else? While that may save time in the moment, it often costs more in the long run. Investing time in teaching has two important benefits. Your staff member grows in knowledge and capability, and you create more capacity for yourself in the future.
As you move through this busy season, I invite you to pause and consider where you may be prioritizing speed over form. Where might greater intention or care lead to better outcomes, even if it takes a bit more time? Form before speed is a discipline, one that builds trust, capability, and lasting results. If you would like support in applying this mindset to your leadership, decision-making, or personal growth, I welcome you to schedule a discovery conversation through my website. Sometimes the most meaningful progress begins by slowing down and doing it right. I would love to work with you!