Kyocera Newsletter

The value of slowness in a fast-paced world

“Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast.” This simple phrase, repeated throughout the new F1 film by Brad Pitt’s character Sonny Hayes, feels surprisingly relevant in our world of automation, acceleration, and urgency. While originally attributed to military training, it now echoes across leadership conversations, and it rings especially true for the work we do at KDZA. 

In today’s business world, speed is often celebrated as a virtue. We chase deadlines, multi-task across platforms, and often feel the pressure to respond immediately. But in this fast-forward culture, something important can get lost:- reflection, precision, and clarity. Slowness, used intentionally, is not the opposite of productivity. It’s the foundation of it. 

Various articles in Fast Company, Forbes and HBR agree that in high-stakes environments, the best leaders are not the ones who react fastest, they’re the ones who pause, assess, and proceed with purpose. When we slow down with intention, we make better decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and deliver smoother outcomes. Whether it’s investigating a complex issue, thoughtfully configuring a hybrid print solution, or taking the time to really hear what a customer needs, that pause often creates the space where real solutions emerge. 

This approach is deeply embedded in how we work at KDZA. We’re not interested in cutting corners. We’re here to build trust, long-term value, and resilient partnerships. That means approaching challenges with care, allowing room for dialogue, and being willing to take the time that quality service requires. 

The Kyocera Philosophy is a call to human-centred decision-making, even under pressure. It's a philosophy that favours clarity over chaos and guides us to do what is right, not just what is rushed. In many ways, slowness is a form of respect, for our customers, our colleagues, and the work itself. 

In the weeks and months ahead, as we start feeling the pull and race toward year-end, the natural reaction is to pick up pace. I’m thinking we would do well to follow in Sonny Hayes’ footsteps and remember that slowness isn’t weakness. It’s wisdom, and smooth really does win. And sometimes, going slow is the fastest way to get where we’re meant to be. 

Yunus Docrat - Customer Services and Support Director - Kyocera Document Solutions South Africa