The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down audiobook cover - How to Be Calm in a Busy World

The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down

How to Be Calm in a Busy World

Haemin Sunim

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The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down
Mind and Perception+
Emotional Detachment+
Redefining Fulfillment+
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Quiz — Test Your Understanding

Question 1 of 8
According to the book, what is the primary reason the world often feels overwhelming and fast-paced?
  • A. Society places too many unrealistic demands on our time.
  • B. Our minds are moving too fast, which dictates our perception of the world.
  • C. We fail to plan our schedules with enough flexibility.
  • D. Technology has artificially sped up human communication and interaction.
Question 2 of 8
What practical technique does the author suggest for managing anxiety before going to bed?
  • A. Meditating in silence for thirty minutes to clear the mind.
  • B. Discussing your worries with a close friend to gain perspective.
  • C. Writing down a list of everything causing anxiety on a single sheet of paper.
  • D. Distracting yourself by reading a book until you fall asleep.
Question 3 of 8
How does the author suggest we deal with negative emotions, using the metaphor of a muddy fish tank?
  • A. Push the emotions down until they are no longer visible.
  • B. Leave them alone and observe them without judgment until they naturally settle.
  • C. Filter out the negative thoughts by actively replacing them with positive affirmations.
  • D. Stir up the emotions to fully express and release them from your system.
Question 4 of 8
What potential problem does the author identify with being overly passionate about your work?
  • A. It can cause you to overlook the actual needs and pace of others.
  • B. It inevitably leads to rapid burnout and physical exhaustion.
  • C. It makes you an easy target for workplace exploitation by management.
  • D. It sets unrealistic expectations for your future career milestones.
Question 5 of 8
Why does the author compare a healthy relationship to a roaring campfire?
  • A. Because relationships require constant fuel and attention to survive the darkness.
  • B. Because passion is the most important element of a strong and lasting bond.
  • C. Because relationships can be unexpectedly destructive if they aren't carefully controlled.
  • D. Because sitting too close for too long can become uncomfortable, illustrating the need for space.
Question 6 of 8
According to the text, what is the primary reason you should forgive someone after a relationship ends?
  • A. To help the other person heal from their mistakes and grow.
  • B. To free yourself from negative energy so you can move on with your life.
  • C. To maintain a sense of moral superiority and emotional maturity.
  • D. To leave the door open for a potential reconciliation in the future.
Question 7 of 8
Where does the author argue we must look to find real, lasting happiness?
  • A. In the achievement of our major career milestones.
  • B. In the validation and praise we receive from our peers.
  • C. In the mundane, everyday activities that make up most of our time.
  • D. In the extraordinary highs and peak experiences of life.
Question 8 of 8
What liberating realization helps us stop worrying about what other people think?
  • A. People are generally not as interested in you as you think they are.
  • B. Everyone shares the exact same insecurities and fears as you.
  • C. Most people are too intimidated by you to judge you harshly.
  • D. Other people's opinions are usually based on their own jealousy.

The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down — Full Chapter Overview

The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down Summary & Overview

The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down (2012) explains how our fast-paced world can easily become overwhelming. Even minor setbacks can seem catastrophic, making the bigger problems all the more devastating. By practicing mindfulness and compassion with ourselves and others, we allow ourselves the space necessary to slow down, breathe, and discover genuine, lasting happiness. 

Who Should Listen to The Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down?

  • Anyone feeling overwhelmed by work, family, relationships, or life in general 
  • Busy professionals who need to be reminded to take time off
  • Everyone seeking balance in these hectic, tumultuous times

About the Author: Haemin Sunim

Haemin Sunim is one of the most influential Zen Buddhist teachers and writers in the world. He has over one million followers on Twitter and Facebook. His books, including Love for Imperfect Things, have been translated into more than 30 languages and sold over four million copies worldwide.

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