Remember when everyone told us to ‘take your time’ while growing up? Somehow, as adults, we tend to forget that advice. Maybe it’s because we’re always in a rush, managing work, home, and kids, often feeling low on energy. Or perhaps it’s due to our access to endless information online, making us think we know everything. I’ve learned from being wrong many times that rushing can lead to mistakes. It’s a simple lesson: sometimes, slowing down and admitting we might not have all the answers is the key to real understanding.

On my journey of mistakes, here are some valuable lessons I’ve learned when it comes to “don’t rush!”:

1. Don’t rush falling in love – it would eventually affect everything in your life. Yes sometimes, the cupid hits and no one can do anything about it, but still – take your time, if you can.
2. Don’t rush to pass judgment on someone solely based on preconceived notions. Easy to fall prey to hearsay but at the least, give that person a chance to explain themselves.
3. Don’t rush to trust people hurriedly. Give them chances and see if they are worthy of your trust. OR trust them but always verify in the beginning.
4. Don’t rush to push relationships in and out of your life. Let things happen naturally. If someone wants to stay, they will, and if they leave, let it happen organically.
5. Don’t rush to make big decisions in a rush, always think long term and see how your choices would impact your future.
6. Don’t rush and let your emotions get the better of you. The calmer you stay in heated situations, the better outcome you would have.
7. Don’t rush to put yourself down. Lot of times we hide our insecurities by de-meaning our own selves. Try to avoid it.
8. Don’t rush to judge yourself as a parent. Most of us struggle with it and most of us are trying to do our best.
9. Don’t rush to always be the first one to initiate conversations in friendships. As adults, we are ALL busy. Sometimes give a chance to your friends to reach out to you.
10. Don’t rush to be harsh to your past. It is what it was, and nothing can change it. Don’t make it an excuse.