In an era defined by relentless notifications and the pressure to respond instantly, former government strategist and meditation teacher Alex Snider's new book, "Sometimes You Should Be Late: The Quiet Rebellion of Slowing Down in a World Obsessed With Speed" (Practical Inspiration Publishing, July 7, 2026), challenges the prevailing culture of chronic urgency. Snider, who spent over 15 years in high-pressure federal environments, argues that our default rush often overrides our values, leading to a loss of patience, perspective, compassion, and connection.
The book delves into the historical origins of punctuality and lateness, introducing concepts like "authentic lateness," "time alchemy," and "standing behind your own clock." Snider emphasizes that this is not a call to reject ambition or efficiency, but rather an invitation to be intentional about attention and energy. "Both our speedy rabbit energy and our inner slower sloth have their places," he notes, acknowledging that speed can be useful and even an act of care, but it becomes problematic when it becomes the default rather than a deliberate choice.
Drawing on contemplative practice, psychology, leadership, and everyday human experience, Snider offers readers new ways to approach time. The book is endorsed by notable authors, including Daniel H. Pink, who praises it for reminding us that "time's real value lies in the human moments we refuse to rush," and Jamie Metzl, who notes that slowing down in the right contexts is "a prerequisite" for progress.
Snider's perspective was shaped by a life-altering bike accident that reshaped his view on urgency and attention. He is also the co-founder of Mindful Fed, an initiative exploring mindfulness in federal workplaces. The book is available at major retailers, including Amazon, Bookshop.org, and BN.com. For more information, visit Alex Snider's online press kit.
Ultimately, "Sometimes You Should Be Late" presents a compelling case that time is not something to constantly manage or optimize but to experience with greater awareness. In a world that rewards rushing, Snider's work is a timely reminder that slowing down can create space for what truly matters: our values, relationships, and humanity.
