Rituals & Spaces
Objects That Slow You Down & Help You Think
The world may push you to hustle and make quick decisions, but too much rush can backfire.
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Quick is often the enemy of good when it comes to deciding what to do next in your business or personal life. While there are many methods that can help you, there are also objects you can put in your home or office that provide real benefits, too. Setting these things in your environment can slow you down just enough to allow clarity and reflection to fuel your best decision-making power.
Rather than using these classic timers to speed things up, try using them as meditation or deep-thinking tools instead. The gentle fall of sand or sweep of the second hand can act as a point of focus. Instead of making snap decisions, take a moment to ponder the best course of action.
In a world of digital efficiency, slowing down with a more tactile method of recording notes or brainstorming can help. Physical writing not only forces you to think differently, it also engages your mind in more productive ways. A heavier pen can ground you in the intentional rhythm of the process, which cuts down on impulsive decisions.
It’s long been known that houseplants imbue a space with a sense of calm and relaxation. Incorporating them into your office or home can offer benefits when it comes to decision making and getting things done in general. Less stress equals more conscious and confident thought. Take a moment to look at the cool green leaves or simply benefit from the improved air quality.
A pretty candle or small oil lamp introduces light and sometimes fragrance to your room. While mostly considered decorative, research exists that shows gazing at a small fire like this actually improves cognitive function. When it comes to making decisions, the boost in attention, focus, and mental flexibility can only help. Take a moment to carefully light a candle and gaze at it while mulling over the possibilities in your mind.
These tactile objects fit neatly in your hand. Squeeze, stroke, or spin them as you think about the possibilities in front of you. While often marketed to children with ADHD or other neurodivergences, they can provide benefits for everyone with a heavy mental load. Instead of diving right into making a decision, take a moment to ground yourself.
These tabletop objects work much in the same way as a fidget gadget but with much more intention. They consist of a small tray filled with sand or small stones and a miniature rake or other tools to move the sand around. Use the garden by positioning rocks and shaping the sand around them. Usually used for relaxation, the meditative outcome also helps with making decisions from a fresh perspective. Slowing down the decision-making process can help with both personal life and business planning and growth. When you add one or more of these objects to your space, you remind yourself to take a breath and focus before deciding on the best way forward.
