You are always running, probably. I know I used to. I used to always run between theatre, emergency, the ward, clinic, preoperative holding bay, recovery, etc. I need to run so I can pack more things into my day and spread myself thinly over many things. In the midst of running, I often realise that I am less effective and less helpful to others. I project this air of busy-ness and keep others at a distance so they won’t bother me. But I’m learning now to slow down and purposely hold my thoughts longer. I’m learning to slow down during rounds so I can spend a bit more time with patients, and allow students and nurses to stop me and ask me questions. I slow down enough to make me interruptible and approachable. I slow down enough to allow my mind to think clearly. I sit on the patient’s bed. I sit on the nurses desk. I slow my footsteps. Interestingly, I still get the same amount of stuff done (or not done) during the day whether I am at 110mph or just on slower speed. I am realising that slowing down is good for me, my colleagues and my patients. Try that.