In today's fast-paced world, success often seems synonymous with speed and overachievement. The pressure to constantly excel—be it in career, personal life, or social standing—has led to a culture that rewards rapid accomplishments, high productivity, and the pursuit of more.

But what about those who move at their own pace? Are slow achievers being left behind in a world increasingly dominated by fast lanes?

The societal push towards quick success can be overwhelming. The mantra of "hustle culture" pushes individuals to achieve more in less time, often leading to burnout.

For those who choose—or are forced by circumstance—to take a slower approach to personal or professional growth, this fast-aced environment can feel alienating.

They may be seen as not fitting the mould of today's ideal overachiever. Yet, slow achievers have much to offer. Their deliberate, thoughtful progress often results in a deeper understanding of their work or personal lives, and a more meaningful connection to their goals.

Adding to this pressure is social media, which has become a constant highlight reel of accomplishments.

Platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn are often flooded with promotions, new job titles, and carefully curated snapshots of people living their "best lives."

This constant stream of achievements can make those who are moving at their own pace feel inadequate.

Studies have shown that regular social media use is associated with feelings of inferiority and low self-esteem, particularly when individuals are comparing themselves to others.

The pressure to display one’s own successes often leaves little room to acknowledge personal struggles or slower progress.

More and more people are stepping away from social media for precisely this reason.

The "digital detox" movement has gained traction, with many users reporting they feel happier and less anxious after stepping back from the constant bombardment of others' accomplishments.

A 2023 survey by The Guardian revealed that younger generations are increasingly deleting social media apps from their phones, citing the negative effects on their mental health and self-worth.

Influencers and public figures, such as Selena Gomez, have openly discussed their struggles with social media's impact on their well-being, encouraging their followers to prioritise mental health over online validation.

The modern workplace also embodies this pressure to keep up with ever-increasing demands.

Long hours, tight deadlines, and performance metrics are pushing employees to their limits, often at the cost of their mental health.

This year’s World Mental Health Day theme- Mental Health Is A Universal Human Right- highlights the importance of addressing mental health in the workplace.

In a world where fast-aced work and constant online comparison are the norms, slow achievers are at particular risk of feeling sidelined and undervalued, leading to stress and anxiety.

The relentless push for quick success, compounded by the curated lives we see online, is stripping away the natural process of growth, reflection, and self-discovery.

Slow achievers may not dominate social media feeds, but their journey is just as valuable. By taking a step back from the fast lane, we can honour the unique pace at which each person grows and create a world that values both productivity and well-being.

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