Choices Podcast - EP69 - Slow & Steady wins the race - 9/18/2025

A Lesson in ‘Slow and Steady'

In a fast-paced world that prizes instant gratification, we often forget the value of patience and deliberate action. A recent discussion between two podcast hosts brings this into sharp focus, highlighting how “slow and steady wins the race” applies not just to childhood fables but to real-life decisions, from personal integrity to professional conduct.

The conversation starts with a powerful observation on the dangers of the “quick fix.” One host recounts two separate, disheartening examples of spiritual leaders—a preacher who resigned due to infidelity and another who was a pedophile—who made quick, destructive decisions for what was likely a fleeting, selfish gain. This led to a key takeaway: taking the time to make the right, moral decision—the slow decision—is far more valuable than giving in to the temptation of a quick, damaging one.

The discussion then pivots to the power of thoughtful communication. The hosts talk about how people are quick to “spew venom” without thinking. To combat this, one host shares a unique tip they teach witnesses: repeat the question before you answer it. This simple, slow act of repeating what was said gives you a moment to think and avoid getting “riled up.” It's a method to ensure your response is intentional and not reactive.

The conversation concludes with a critique of a specific generational trend: young adults in job interviews demanding unusual accommodations like Mondays and Fridays off from the start. This, the hosts argue, is the opposite of “slow and steady wins the race.” One host even admits to now only hiring people aged 45 and above because they value the “slow and steady” approach and a strong work ethic. They contrast this with a story about a baseball player who, by waiting a moment longer on a pitch, learns to hit with more power to the opposite field. This metaphor perfectly encapsulates the central theme: patience and deliberate action lead to better, more powerful outcomes in the long run.

What Can You Do?

The hosts' discussion offers several practical takeaways for anyone looking to make more thoughtful decisions and communicate more effectively.

• Practice mindful communication. Before you respond to a question or a statement, especially in a tense situation, take a moment. Repeating the question in your head—or even out loud—can give you the pause you need to formulate a more considered and less emotional response.
• Embrace the “slow” decision. When faced with a choice, consider the long-term consequences. Avoid the temptation of the “quick fix” or the immediate gratification that might compromise your values or lead to trouble down the road.
• Be a “slow” professional. In your career, remember that success is often built over time. The “slow and steady” approach—working hard, being reliable, and demonstrating a strong work ethic—can lead to more lasting and meaningful career growth than demanding immediate, unconventional perks.
• Find your “opposite field” power. Just like the baseball player who learned to wait for the right pitch, consider where patience can give you an edge in your life. Whether it's in a negotiation, a creative project, or a personal relationship, waiting for the right moment can lead to a more powerful and effective result.

The Hosts' Final Thoughts

The entire conversation between the hosts is a testament to the enduring wisdom of “slow and steady wins the race.” They move from the serious consequences of rushed, immoral decisions by public figures to practical, everyday tools for better communication and a critique of a culture that often lacks patience. They end on a lighthearted, yet profound, baseball metaphor, perfectly tying together their central message: whether you're at the plate or in life, taking a beat, being deliberate, and patiently waiting for the right moment will lead to a better outcome.

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