Is there any doubt that “instant” is a prized value in our Western society? Fast-food. Speed-dating. Instant messaging. If fast is good, faster is better. Steeped in this adrenaline inspiring culture, I often make commitments the same way—quickly. I’ve discovered that my enthusiasm about a new idea can often lead me to make a commitment that I wouldn’t otherwise make if I had slowed down enough to evaluate it carefully. It seems that all too often I find myself sacrificing the larger commitments—life purpose pursuits—at the altar of drive-by opportunities. Seldom are these immediate opportunities as important, or rewarding. Yet, they come quickly and furiously—and loudly. In the midst of this onslaught, larger pursuits wait quietly for a time when I slow down enough to think and act slowly.

Your thoughts? When was the last time you gave yourself permission to think slowly about your commitments?