SPEED isn’t always good.  

Life moves at a fast pace. We do things now in record time. We meet people all over the world in seconds versus months or days in the past. We no longer have to wait for a letter to come in the mail eagerly awaiting a response from a loved one or a friend. We can accomplish more in a day faster than any time in human history due to technology.  

As a result of our need for speed we’ve forgotten to slow down and enjoy the moments in life that are meaningful and impactful for us as individuals. When we accomplish a big goal or fulfill a dream many of us now instantly move onto the next thing. As a result of this fast-paced world we fail to recognize or fully appreciate our wins. In fact these wins become diminished or barely acknowledged for what they are. Wins!  

We’ve become programmed to move so quickly and virtually unable to savor in the moments that really matter. As the seconds to each day disappear forever I’ve begun to appreciate many of the small wins as well. From just making it to the gym when I’m tired, to finishing up this very column. I’m not telling the world about these wins. Rather, I’m enjoying them and recognizing them for what they are.  

Another accomplishment no matter how small should be acknowledged even if only for a second. So that we as humans in this fast-paced world can appreciate this thing called life.  

I’ve found that my happiness quotient has increased significantly over the past year due to myself reflection and awareness of those little moments that when compounded equal our life. So, as the old saying goes. Take time to smell the roses.  

 ***

Michael Alden, a graduate of Suffolk Law School and a three-time Wall Street Journal and USA Today Best Seller, is from Beverly, MA.  He has contributed to Forbes, Huffington Post, CNBC and, Entrepreneur, and was awarded Boston’s 40 Under 40 Award.  To learn more about Michael Alden, visit here. You can also find him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat @MikeAlden2012