Life Lessons I Didn’t Learn Until I Slowed Down

Hey Luves,
Okay, so picture this: we’re on the couch, snacks nearby, bonnet on, and I’m like—“Sis… let me tell you what life just taught me.”
Because if I’m learning, you know I’m sharing. This one’s for all of us figuring it out, showing up for ourselves, and giving ourselves grace along the way.

I used to thrive on being everywhere, for everyone. I wasn’t caught up in the hustle culture, but I was definitely caught up in the yes culture—saying yes to invites, conversations, favors, plans, and things that were draining me more than filling me.

I was a socialite by nature, a people-pleaser by habit, and somewhere along the way, I forgot how to just be still.

Slowing down wasn’t something I planned. It was something I needed. And once I did, life started speaking to me in ways it never had before.


1. Being Social Doesn’t Mean Being Connected

I used to think showing up everywhere meant I was connected, involved, living. But I was exhausted. Constant movement left little space for emotional stillness. Slowing down helped me find real connection—with myself, first.


2. Listening to Myself is a Form of Self-Care

Slowing down taught me to actually listen when my spirit says, “I don’t want to go.” I’ve learned to honor those feelings without guilt. Every time I stay in when I need rest, I’m choosing me.


3. My Version of Rest Isn’t Lazy—It’s Liberating

Now, rest looks like a movie on the couch with my partner instead of loud music and packed spaces. It’s lighting a candle, turning my phone on Do Not Disturb, and being okay with missing out. Because I’m not really missing anything that was meant for my peace.


4. I Had to Slow My Mind, Not Just My Body

It’s not just the events and plans I’ve pulled back from—it’s the mental pacing. I used to live in “what’s next?” mode. Constantly thinking, overthinking, and preparing. Now I breathe. I pause. I take it one moment at a time. That alone has been healing.


5. Presence is My New Power

The more I slow down, the more I realize how much beauty I was rushing past. A quiet morning. A real laugh. A moment with no pressure. These are the things I crave now. Presence has become my new definition of powerful.


The Takeaway:

Slowing down helped me see that peace wasn’t something I had to earn—it was something I had to allow. I don’t show up less for people. I just show up better for myself.

This version of me? She’s softer. She’s clearer. And she finally knows what it feels like to rest without guilt.


Let’s Chat:

What has slowing down looked like for you lately? Are you finding peace in quiet moments too? Tag me @imperfectlyk or leave a comment—I’d love to know.

Thank you for reading today’s Blog

Until next time Keep Growing and Thriving on the Journey

xo, Kieks

A woman in a green dress stands outdoors, surrounded by lush greenery and garden beds, looking off to the side under a clear blue sky.

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