The art of slowing down

It feels like only yesterday that I was asked if I wanted to share my thoughts in the form of columns for Erasmus Magazine. At first, I doubted whether I could do it, but I took on the challenge anyway.

It began with sharing my ideas on science, education and societal issues. I wrote about the alcohol policy on campus, thesis supervision, and time-consuming grant applications, among other things. As my list of topics grew shorter, I noticed I was developing a new skill: the art of observation.

In a society where we strive for efficiency, we sometimes lose sight of the art of observation. In our daily routines, we rush due to obligations, get distracted by our phones, and forget to observe what is happening right in front of us. While writing columns and taking the time to truly ‘see’ topics, everyday experiences suddenly turned into potential sources of inspiration. Brief encounters, such as a conversation with a student about the future or a colleague’s question about identity at the coffee machine, began to fuel my ideas. I consciously paused, listened, looked and felt. I discovered that there are stories everywhere, just waiting to be written – if you just take a moment to slow down.

The columns also gave me space to reflect on how I think and feel about certain topics. At the same time, they pushed me to deeply consider my work, my role and relevant themes in the academic world. This helped me take a stance, convey nuance, or, conversely, leave room for doubt.

This is my final column for Erasmus Magazine, and I close this process with gratitude. It has been a valuable learning experience, and I will not forget the art of slowing down and observing. In the lecture hall, during conversations with students, or simply in everyday life, valuable insights are hidden in small details – as long as you simply take the time to notice and reflect on them.

Thank you for reading.