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We can engineer our own speed bumps: simple, intentional choices that remind us when to slow down, change course, or pay closer attention.

Like the ones on the road, they aren’t there to stop us completely. They’re there to nudge us to move forward with more care and purpose.

The idea of engineering speed bumps is something I share often in my keynote Finding Our Happy Hours: Time Optimization Secrets Revealed. It is one of the most requested sessions I lead, and for good reason. We are all trying to reclaim time and attention for what matters most.

Here are some ways we can add or remove speed bumps in our daily lives.

Add Speed Bumps

Intentionally slow or disrupt unhelpful patterns

• 24-hour yes: Adopt a 24-hour yes policy for new requests. If it still aligns with priorities tomorrow, we accept

• Phone out of sight: Put our phones across the room during deep work, planning, or important conversations

• Meeting buffer: Build in a 5-minute gap by starting meetings later. That quick reset won’t derail the agenda but can restore attention

• Email delay: Schedule emails to send 5-10 minutes later so heated replies can be revised before they go out.

• Two-tab focus: Use the two-tab rule when giving feedback, analyzing data, or drafting reports (OneTab helps if closing tabs feels stressful)

• Doorway pause: One hand on the door frame, one breath, one intention before entering a classroom, office, or meeting

• Transition chime: Add a soft chime on our watch or phone as a cue to stand, sip water, or reset

• Sticky note reminder: Place a note on our desk as a nudge that we don’t have to say yes to everything

I often think of James Clear’s example of setting workout clothes out the night before, so figuring out what to wear is one less speed bump on the way to the gym.

Remove Speed Bumps

Make it easier to do what matters most

• Drop-in hour: Create one weekly open time with a booking link so colleagues can connect without endless scheduling emails (and add the link to your email signature so it’s always handy)

• Effortless emails: Save ready-to-use templates for your three most often sent messages (for example, check-ins, appreciations, and meeting recaps)

• Celebration in seconds: Pin a quick-shout-out form or template in our shared space (like Slack, Teams, or Google Drive) so gratitude happens in the moment

• QR code connection: Post a simple QR code or link for quick check-ins from learners, families, or colleagues

• Shoes at the door: Leave walking shoes by the desk or door for a midday reset

• Decision-free mornings: Set up coffee, clothes, or tech the night before to start the day with less friction

• Agenda audit: Trim one item from the agenda to create natural breathing room

• Reflection within reach: Place a journal or prompt where we’ll notice it during transition times

By engineering the placement of our own speed bumps, we create environments in both our personal and professional lives that support well-being, deepen relationships, and optimize performance.

Let’s keep noticing, evolving, and thriving—one speed bump at a time.

Next Week: Tal Ben-Shahar!
Don’t miss this episode with Tal on happiness, stress, and the power of MVIs. Plus how he forever changed my Starbucks order!

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Reach out anytime: Lainie@me.com