Slow is Smooth, Smooth is Fast

by Michael Robillard

The phrase "slow is smooth, smooth is fast" may at first seem paradoxical, but it encapsulates a profound concept that has widespread application for many aspects of life. It is a principle often associated with military training (I myself first heard this phrase from a buddy of mine who was taught this mantra for underwater knot tying in preparation for Army SCUBA School), but its wisdom extends far beyond just the battlefield. This phrase reminds us that haste and impatience can lead to errors and inefficiency, while a deliberate, methodical, and composed approach often yields quicker and more successful results.

In military and law enforcement contexts, "slow is smooth, smooth is fast" is a foundational idea in firearm training. It emphasizes the importance of mastering the fundamentals of marksmanship through slow and deliberate practice. In this context, "slow" means taking the time to learn and perfect each step of shooting, from proper grip and stance to sight alignment and trigger control. By practicing these skills slowly and smoothly, an individual can develop muscle memory and fine-tune their technique. Over time, this deliberate approach results in greater precision and speed when it matters most, under pressure.

Beyond the tactical realm, the phrase applies to various facets of life, from sports to education and even personal development. In sports, athletes who focus on refining their skills and techniques before pushing for speed often achieve greater success. For example, a sprinter who dedicates time to perfecting their form and stride will ultimately run faster than one who rushes through their training, relying on raw speed alone.

In education, the principle encourages learners to take their time to understand the core concepts before attempting to tackle more advanced material. This measured approach allows for a deeper comprehension, making it easier to connect new knowledge to the foundation built through slower, smoother learning.

On a personal level, "slow is smooth, smooth is fast" reminds us to take a deliberate and mindful approach to our daily lives. Rushing through tasks or decisions can lead to mistakes and hasty judgments. By taking a step back, considering our options, and moving forward deliberately and smoothly, we can make better choices, often saving time in the long run.

This principle also touches on the importance of patience and the avoidance of impulsivity. Society often encourages instant gratification and quick fixes, but the phrase reminds us that lasting success is often built through consistent effort and refinement.

In conclusion, the phrase "slow is smooth, smooth is fast" underscores the importance of patience, deliberate practice, and a measured approach in various aspects of life. It teaches us that rushing through tasks or training can lead to inefficiency and errors, while a steady and smooth path ultimately results in swifter and more successful outcomes. Whether in the context of military training, sports, education, or personal growth, this phrase serves as a valuable reminder to embrace the journey and focus on mastery before speed, ultimately leading to better results and greater achievements.

That being said, as life in this day and age keeps encouraging our monkey minds to move faster and faster, seemingly with no time for reflection or deliberation at all, try at least for a moment to remind yourself that slowing down a bit might from time to time actually get you faster to where you ultimately want to be.