Being constantly busy isn’t actually productive.

“The antidote to the ‘always hustling’ mindset is ‘slowness.’ It sounds crazy, but slowing down can be the difference between success or failure, or between thriving and burning out,” writes Andrew Thomas for Inc.

Thomas gives three ways slowing down can help you succeed:

• It helps you focus. When you’re constantly working, you’re not taking the time to evaluate what you’re doing and if you’re even doing the right thing.

“To remedy this, schedule an hour every week to "check in." Reflect on your intentions and observe the challenges or opportunities showing up in front of you,” he writes. “Think about what's working, what isn't working, and where you can focus your energy next week.”

• It’s good for your health. “If your goal is to succeed, then you should be willing to take the time to honor what your mind, body, and spirit need to stay healthy,” explains Thomas. “When every day provides 24 hours, there's really no excuse not to meditate, exercise, cook a healthy meal, or journal.”
• It keeps you in check. When you take a breather from work, you’re able to check in on how you are feeling and manage your emotions better.

“Emotions are a guide, and they help you take inventory of what's happening in and around you, and how best to respond,” writes Thomas. “Successful people feel and manage their emotions, and they don't let them trigger bad behaviors or actions.”