3884 Running to Stand Still

Too much to do and holidays too close, how do you keep up with all of it the most? Every day can get you down when you keep going around. You claim you're busy, but you're just dizzy. Nothing will change until—you stop running to stand still.

Why do we keep trying to convince ourselves that we can do everything?

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The myth of doing it all drains energy, steals joy, and steals our clarity. It's called busy for a reason—but busy isn't always progress. Sometimes it's just noise. It's absolutely okay to ask for help. It's OK to slow down. It's OK to rest. The real question is: will you?

Will you be brave enough to face what's not working? Will you shift course before the burnout knocks you down? Or will you keep pushing full throttle into the end of the year, exhausted, with no clear direction for what comes next?

The Illusion of Momentum

All too often in these busiest months—from November's scramble through to the new year's fresh beginnings—we confuse motion with progress. You cram your schedule with meetings, projects, social obligations. You double down on multitasking, telling yourself this is how you "handle it all." But the truth is, you might just be running in circles. The more you do, the faster you run, and the less you move forward.

This constant pace is a trap. It wears you down emotionally and physically. Your work quality dips, your relationships strain, and your soul starves for meaning. This is why the phrase "running to stand still" isn't just poetic—it's a warning; slow down to speed up.

The K.I.S.S. ~ Slow down to S.P.E.E.D. up!

SPEED: Five Ways to Slow Down to Speed Up

To break free from this dizzying cycle, it's time to adjust your tempo. Here's a practical guide, using SPEED as your roadmap, to help you slow down without losing momentum—especially when the pressure is highest.

S — Stop and Assess
Before you dive into another task, hit pause. Take five minutes each day this season to look at your whole schedule and goals. Are these activities moving you closer to what matters?

For example, instead of saying yes to every holiday invite or extra project at work, ask: "Is this necessary? Does this serve my priorities or just fill my calendar?" Being intentional here saves energy for what counts.

P — Prioritize Ruthlessly
You can't do everything, nor should you try. Make a list not just of tasks, but of outcomes that truly matter.

In the holiday season, that might mean focusing on spending quality time with close family over attending every social event, or choosing three key projects to excel at instead of ten half-done commitments. Prioritizing cuts the noise and clears your path.

E — Establish Boundaries
Busy seasons tempt us to say yes to all requests—but boundaries protect your well-being and focus. Set limits on work hours, screen time, and social media consumption.

Maybe this means turning off email notifications after 7 p.m. or blocking out personal time on your calendar for a quiet walk or journaling. Boundaries aren't selfish; they're strategic.

E — Engage Support
Remember, asking for help is strength, not weakness.

Whether it's delegating holiday tasks to family members, hiring extra help at work, or simply sharing your challenges with a trusted friend, support changes everything.

This season, don't carry every burden alone. Real people, real help, real relief.

D — Digest and Reflect
At the end of each day or week, take time to reflect. What went well? What drained you? What could be adjusted?

This reflection builds awareness and prevents you from slipping back into frantic running. It also allows you to celebrate small wins, which fuels motivation and resilience.

When Will You Find Your Right Tempo?

Running faster doesn't guarantee progress. Finding the right speed—the tempo that fits your life and goals—does. When you align your pace with purpose, you don't just survive the busy season; you thrive through it. You'll come out clearer, stronger, and ready to step into what's next with confidence.

So when will you stop s