What's Happening?
Elder Patrick Kearon, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, delivered a devotional at BYU Education Week, urging attendees to slow down and prioritize peace over relentless achievement. He shared his personal struggle with overachievement and the tendency
to equate self-worth with productivity. Elder Kearon emphasized that while goals and plans are important for focus, they should not consume individuals to the point of overwhelming the peace offered by Jesus Christ. He cited a study titled “Goals Gone Wild,” which suggests that an excessive focus on measurable goals can diminish joy. His message highlighted the importance of finding peace in one's actual life rather than constantly striving for an idealized future based on an endless to-do list and unachieved goals. He recounted an instance where the late President M. Russell Ballard encouraged him to slow down by sending him a video of a song titled “Slow Down.”
Why It's Important?
Elder Kearon's message is significant for its emphasis on mental and spiritual well-being within a culture that often values achievement and productivity. For many in the U.S., particularly within religious communities and academic settings like BYU, there can be immense pressure to constantly strive for more, whether in education, career, or personal life. This address challenges the prevailing notion that continuous achievement leads to lasting peace and happiness. By advocating for slowing down and finding contentment in one's current life, Elder Kearon offers a counter-narrative to the often-stressful pursuit of perfection. This perspective can influence how individuals within the Latter-day Saint community, and potentially beyond, approach their daily lives, work-life balance, and spiritual practices, fostering a greater focus on inner peace and spiritual connection rather than external accomplishments.
What's Next?
The advice from Elder Kearon is likely to resonate with and influence members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, particularly those attending BYU Education Week and others who follow the teachings of church leaders. Individuals may re-evaluate their personal and professional goals, seeking a more balanced approach that integrates spiritual rest and contemplation. This could lead to a shift in how some within the community prioritize their time and energy, potentially fostering a greater emphasis on Sabbath observance and personal reflection. The message may also encourage broader discussions within the community about the pressures of achievement and the importance of mental health and spiritual well-being. Educational institutions and religious organizations might consider incorporating these themes into their guidance and programs, promoting a more holistic view of success that includes peace and spiritual grounding.
Beyond the Headlines
The deeper implication of Elder Kearon's message touches upon a broader societal issue in the U.S. and other developed nations: the relentless pursuit of achievement and its impact on mental health. In a society that often glorifies busyness and quantifiable success, the call to 'slow down' and find peace in one's 'actual life' challenges fundamental cultural norms. This message transcends religious boundaries, speaking to anyone who feels overwhelmed by the pressure to constantly achieve. It highlights the ethical dimension of self-worth being tied to productivity, suggesting a need for a more compassionate and sustainable approach to living. The emphasis on rest and spiritual connection as vital components of a fulfilling life could encourage a re-evaluation of societal values, potentially leading to a greater appreciation for mindfulness, contemplation, and the intrinsic value of individuals beyond their accomplishments.
