The Power of Paradox: How Less, Slow, and Small Spark Significant Success

Life is a paradox—a beautiful dance of contradictions. We often try to simplify it into neat, linear paths, but the truth is that embracing life’s opposing forces can lead to deeper fulfilment. 

Embracing the enigma of life is not only enlightening, but can help us navigate challenges with resilience and an open heart to find peace in the chaos; comfort in the hardship, and mindful existence in the inherent unpredictability.

Steve Harmon, the main protagonist in my book, SPARK: Journey from Success to Significance, bears witness to this animus ambiguity when he sets forth on a seemingly unimportant trip that quickly transforms into a life-changing expedition, which then completely alters the course of his life, love and legacy. 

In hopes of inspiring transformation in your life, this week I’ll focus on 3 of the most profound paradoxes that can define your human experience and explore why acknowledging them can lead you to create more impact and experience more fulfilment. 

#1: Less is More

First popularized by minimalist architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, the term ‘Less is More’, today, has a much deeper application than just a design principle. In a world filled with messages urging us to consume more, we are slowly becoming wiser to this age-old adage by understanding that true happiness in fact often comes from having less. Letting go of unnecessary clutter—whether possessions, commitments, or distractions—allows us to focus on what truly matters: relationships, experiences, and inner peace. Owning less helps us live more intentionally, making space for what genuinely brings joy and fulfilment. 

In business, “Less is More” is exemplified by brands like Apple, T-Mobile and Netflix. Especially in the areas of productivity and employee satisfaction. Instead of overwhelming employees by demanding more time at work, these companies now challenge HR departments to find creative ways of inspiring better results by working with team leaders to accomplish their goals in less time. The 4-day workweek is one example that has slowly been gaining popularity to combat burnout. These brands also aim to avoid complex, difficult processes by instituting less elaborate and simple methodologies that create wider impact, like the K.I.S.S. (Keep It Short and Simple) process. As Leonardo Da Vinci said, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”

4 Steps for incorporating ‘Less is More’ into your daily being:

1. Goals that Truly Matter – Choose to establish goals that align with your values and will bring genuine fulfilment. 
2. Declutter Your Space – Start with decluttering one area of your home/office, like your wardrobe or workspace. Donate or recycle items you no longer need.
3. Reduce Screen Time – Limit the time you spend on social media or watching TV each day. Set a daily limit of 30 minutes for non-essential screen time.
4. Practice Mindful Consumption – Acquire only what you need. Before making a purchase, ask yourself if it truly adds value to your life or is just an impulse.

#2: Slow is Fast

With its roots in the military and law enforcement circles, the ‘Slow is Fast’ principle was introduced to respect the need for speed and precision in strategic and tactical manoeuvres. In the same vein, if we slow down when the pressure is on in life and at work, it can actually lead to greater progress in a more efficient timeframe. Why? Because when we take the time to be deliberate and be intentional about things—we avoid costly mistakes and make more meaningful decisions. Slowing down allows us to focus on quality; avoid burnout, and ultimately achieve more methodically in the long run. 

4 Steps for incorporating ‘Slow is Fast’ into your daily being:

1. Dedicated Stillness Daily – Set aside time each day for stillness by practising 10 minutes of meditation daily to clear mental clutter and reduce stress.
2. Intentional Day Plan – Spend a few minutes each morning planning out your top priorities for the day rather than jumping straight into tasks.
3. One Task at a Time – Avoid multitasking. Instead, focus and direct your energy to completing one task before moving on to the next. 
4. Take Breaks and Slow Down – Give yourself permission to take breaks throughout the day. Pause to breathe, reflect, and recalibrate so you can maintain focus and quality in your work.

#3: Small is Big

Amit Agarwal’s book “Small Is Big”, evolves the idea of priority over triviality. Finding fulfilment, productivity, and extraordinary results are based on making the correct choices on the use of your time, resources and skills. Most importantly, it is critical to understand that transformation sparks from the small things rather than the big.

For instance, big changes don’t always require grand gestures—often, it’s the small, consistent actions that make the biggest difference. A simple act of kindness, ten minutes spent on daily practice, or taking the time to listen deeply to a loved one can create ripples that transform projects and lives. 

In the hospitality industry, Ritz-Carlton has become legendary for its attention to detail. Employees are empowered to go above and beyond to deliver personalized experiences, such as remembering a guest’s favourite drink or special anniversaries. These small gestures create unforgettable memories for guests and build a loyalty that extends beyond a single stay, making a massive impact on customer retention and brand reputation.

4 Steps for incorporating ‘Small is Big’ into your daily being:

1. Prioritize Important Relationships – Focus on deepening a few important relationships as opposed to maintaining many superficial connections.
2. Spend on Experiences, Not Things – Choose to spend your resources on an experience—something new, exciting, fun or rewarding—rather than spending on merely material items.
3. One Act of Kindness a Day – An oldie, but a goldie—perform one small act of kindness each day—like holding the door open for someone or giving a genuine compliment that makes someone’s day.
4. Small Savings Regularly – Save small amounts, such as $1 or ₹100, each day and use those savings to advance life and work for greater impact and significance.

Key Takeaway – Building a life of significance isn’t about doing more, moving faster or accumulating more; it’s about being intentional, patient, and present. In the end, less truly becomes more, slowing down helps you move further, and small actions lead to the biggest rewards! 

Don’t forget to share your story in the comments section below. Tell us how you are doing by using these techniques. Have they sparked your life and work experiences? Have you seen any powerful results? Look forward to hearing your unique stories and successes!