What I’m Learning About Slowing Down

Slowing down sounds simple—until you actually try to do it.

Not just pausing for a deep breath or taking a few things off your calendar. I mean truly slowing your mind, your pace, your expectations. Letting go of the pressure to constantly perform or produce something. That’s been the biggest shift for me lately- learning how to be present, even when there’s still plenty to do. These days, I’ve been keeping my focus to three priorities instead of writing a full to-do list. The version of me from a year ago would’ve filled the day to the brim because I could. Because I felt like I should. But I’ve learned that protecting my time isn’t selfish, it’s necessary if I want this slower season of life to work.

There are moments I wonder if I could’ve found this kind of intention while still living in LA. Maybe I could’ve.

But I also know how I’m wired, and I don’t think I would’ve made space for it in the same way. There was always something new to say yes to, another commitment, another thing to juggle. And I know for so many women, especially working moms, it’s not always realistic to drop everything or make a big lifestyle change. But what has helped me is asking, “What’s essential for this season?” and trying to let the rest be secondary.

Poppy is still so little, and Elliott is changing by the day. She’s started slipping on her shoes after breakfast and heading straight for the back door- assuming it’s always a yes now. And most mornings, it is (unless we’re in the middle of one of those Tennessee rainstorms with lightning). That shift in her has mirrored a shift in me. We’re both slowly learning that not everything needs to be rushed.

Jadyn is 18 now. Her being Poppy’s age doesn’t feel that long ago. And back then, I was working a lot. Always juggling, always on the go, always feeling like I was managing more than I could hold. We’ve always been close, and even as she’s stepped into young adulthood, that connection hasn’t changed- it’s just evolving. I have so much admiration for the woman she’s becoming. Watching her grow and make her own choices has been one of the most meaningful parts of motherhood. There’s a part of me that wishes I had slowed down more when she was little- not out of guilt, but because I just miss those years. I can’t go back, but I can be more intentional now. And I want to be.

This week, I listened to an episode of the Dial In podcast called “In Everything Give Thanks,” and it stuck with me. The pastor talked about how easy it is to come to God with a laundry list of things we want Him to fix or solve- and how different it feels to start with thank you. That challenged me. I’ve caught myself so many times lately just jumping straight into requests, forgetting to acknowledge what’s already here. That small shift has brought more peace than I expected. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) Not just when things feel easy. All circumstances.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

Another verse that’s stayed with me: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28) It’s easy to trust that when everything is going well. But I had moments, especially right after we moved, where I wasn’t sure if we had made the right choice. I missed the familiar routines, even though I knew they weren’t helping me grow into the person I wanted to become. Thanking Him during those uncertain moments while also being confident in knowing He is working things out for my good brought me back to the inner peace that only He can provide. “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” (Isaiah 26:3) That’s the kind of peace I want. Not just a quiet morning—but peace that runs deeper, no matter what I’m facing.

Before we moved, I used to feel pulled mentally in so many directions. For example, if I was filming something, I felt that I should really be answering emails. And if I was answering emails, I should’ve been editing or planning something else. That loop of noise ran constantly in the background. I still catch myself slipping into it, but I don’t live there anymore. Protecting my time has meant that when I am working, I’m really working—focused and present. Being fully immersed in whatever I’m doing, not absent mindedly scrolling, checking messages, jumping between apps if I wasn’t intending to do that. Writing this newsletter takes time. I have to sit down, reflect, and gather my thoughts. And when I write, I’m only focused on that—nothing else—until it’s done. Making space for this type of focus has helped me be more present in other areas too, especially with my kids. So when I’m with them my mind isn’t somewhere else and if it naturally starts to wander into what else I should be working on, I remind myself that being fully present is what is most important.

I know how fast life moves. And how easy it is to look back and wish we had been more present. If you’re in a similar season- trying to slow down, to live with a little more peace and purpose, I hope this meets you there. I don’t have a formula. I’m still figuring it out. But here’s what’s been helping me lately:

– Writing down 3 top priorities for the day
– Starting the day thankfulness and reading the Bible
– Doing one thing at a time, fully

That’s where I’m at. It’s not perfect, but it’s helping. And I’m grateful to be walking through it alongside others who are doing the same.

Next week, I’m planning to share a few meals that are actually working for us right now- and what I’ve been learning about time and food since the move.

Thanks for being here,
Brittany