Slow Power

I’ve always had trouble answering the question: “Where do you see yourself living or settling down?”

At face value, I should be able to quickly assess all the places I’ve lived or experienced—compare them against my values and preferences—and say here or there. But transparently, I don’t think I’ve visited enough places to answer confidently. I have ideas, sure—but intellectual wisdom is much different from experiential wisdom.

A couple of years ago, I decided to prioritize travel. One of the first places I added to my list was Thailand.

Coincidentally, my cousins were planning a trip around the same time I was making that list—serendipitous.

In March 2025, we visited Phuket, Chiang Rai, Bangkok, and Krabi. I assumed Bangkok would be the standout for me since I love the surprise and hustle of city life. But surprisingly, it was Chiang Rai that had my heart.

Chiang Rai was the complete opposite of the city: we were surrounded by plants, rivers, temples, mountain villages—and peace.

One of the most memorable parts of the trip was visiting an elephant sanctuary. It was my first time experiencing the size and beauty of the animal. Our elephant caregiver and guide shared all sorts of facts and curiosities about their lifestyle.

And also shared a phrase that stuck with me since:

“Slow power.”

That phrase was used to describe not only the elephants’ natural pace—about 4 mph—but also their temperament, their presence, and their intentionality.

As leisurely as their lives may seem in documentaries or photos, elephants get a surprising amount done in a day. They eat upwards of 500 pounds of food, travel long distances, care for and discipline their calves, revisit the bones of deceased loved ones, and nurture bonds with one another.

They live with purpose—unhurried but never unproductive.

I don’t necessarily see myself living in Chiang Rai, but I would absolutely visit again. And more than that, I love the idea of incorporating slow power into my own life.

There’s value in the hustle, especially in an industry where urgency and comparing timelines are the norm. But there’s also value—equal, if not greater—in doing things properly and with care.

One of my directing professors in college used to say:
“There isn’t much time—therefore we must go slowly.”

A respectful reminder that intentionality is the foundation of meaningful work. Form and content first—and speed will follow.

So that’s my reminder for now:

Introduce more honey-speed into your work and life.
Experience the places that pique your interest—and even the ones that don’t.
And always remember the quiet strength of slow power.