021 - What if slow is not stuck, but sacred?

Have we confused speed with progress?In this reflection, Mel shares a surprisingly simple experiment that changed how he thinks about learning, creativity, work, and life: listening to audiobooks at normal speed.For years, he consumed books at 1.5x, 1.75x, and sometimes even 2x speed trying to maximize learning and efficiency. But over time, he noticed something unexpected: he was finishing more books while absorbing less of them.This led to a deeper question:What if the most valuable skill today isn't moving faster, but learning how to slow down?In a culture obsessed with optimization, productivity, and constant acceleration, slowing down can feel uncomfortable. But it may also be the key to deeper thinking, better decisions, and a more meaningful life.In this video, Mel explores:• Why we've been conditioned to equate speed with progress• The hidden cost of consuming information too quickly• How AI, social media, and constant stimulation are reshaping our attention• Why thoughtful people often move more deliberately than quickly• The surprising relationship between slowing down and making better decisions• How depth, reflection, and integration create long-term value• Why "slow" may actually be a competitive advantage in today's worldA powerful reminder for founders, creators, therapists, and thoughtful professionals who feel caught between the pressure to keep up and the desire to build a life that feels more intentional.If you've ever felt the tension between speed and meaning, this conversation is for you.--Resources:Learn more about Haven:If you’re a therapist building online income (courses, podcasting, YouTube, writing, speaking) and want to do it in a way that’s sustainable, human, and aligned—Haven is our community for that.👉 sellingthecouch.com/havenJoin Quiet Builder: A premium letter for thoughtful founders, leaders, and therapists growing with soul, not speed.https://www.sellingthecouch.com/quietbuilderOr follow us on YouTube for weekly video episodes:https://www.youtube.com/@QuietBuilders