Doing nothing is a strategy: embracing the power of slowing down

Last year, I received a plot twist I never expected—a cancer diagnosis. It was a wake-up call, not just about my health, but about how I had been living. The overwhelming pace of life, filled with deadlines, to-do lists, and constant busyness, led me to the realisation that I needed to slow down. This wasn’t just about physical recovery; it was about giving my mind and soul the space to breathe.

I discovered that "doing nothing" could be a strategy in itself. In a world that praises constant productivity, we often forget that slowing down and making time for ourselves is equally important. It’s through this quiet time that we can find clarity, reset, and show up as the best versions of ourselves.

The power of doing nothing: a strategic pause

Greg McKeown, the author of Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less, perfectly captures this idea with the following:

“The key to success is not in how much you can do, but in what you can do after you’ve given yourself the space to think, reflect, and rest.”

This wisdom resonated deeply with me. I realised that all of my hustle and constant motion had taken away the vital space I needed to reflect, recharge, and truly understand my own desires and needs. Sometimes, stepping away from the endless to-do lists allows us to be more focused and intentional in what we do next.

Slowing down through books: My 30-Book Challenge

After my diagnosis, I knew that I had to make changes. I started by committing to slowing down in a meaningful way—creating space for rest and reflection, starting with my love of reading. This year, I set myself the challenge of reading 30 books. It wasn’t just about reading more—it was about taking time for me. It was about finding an escape from the stresses of life and slowing down enough to truly enjoy the experience of being immersed in a book.

WellyBooks, the blog you’re reading right now, grew out of this realisation. It’s my space to share my reading journey, reflect on the power of books, and encourage others to slow down and read, too. But this isn’t just about the books. It’s a commitment to prioritising self-care, to make time for myself, and to enjoy moments of rest without any pressure.

Why slowing down is a strategy

Slowing down isn’t about being lazy. It’s a strategy that leads to greater creativity, improved mental health, and deeper self-awareness. Doing nothing—whether it’s sitting with a book, walking outside, or simply resting—isn’t wasted time. It’s an investment in your well-being and personal growth. And that’s something I’m learning to embrace more and more each day.

Now, it’s your turn

How can you slow down this week? How can you make time for yourself, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day? Whether it’s taking a break from work, reading a chapter, or simply reflecting in silence, let me know what strategies you’re using to recharge in the comments.