NEW YORK — Does slow and steady really win the race? According to a new survey, the answer is yes. Researchers find those who describe themselves as laid-back are not only adjusting better to life in quarantine, but are reportedly more optimistic overall.
A OnePoll survey of 2,000 Americans — split up by those who say they prefer moving slowly versus those who do things quickly — reveals that respondents who take their time not only adapt more easily to life at home (38% vs. 25%), but are also more likely to see the bright side of situations.
Commissioned by Crockpot for National Slow Cooking Month in January, the survey looked at a variety of personality differences between Americans who enjoy a slower or quicker pace. Those who take their time are more likely to consider themselves introverts. On the other hand, those who move quickly through life commonly identified themselves as ambiverts.
The poll also delved into each group’s hobbies, with fast-moving respondents more likely to enjoy outdoorsy hobbies like gardening, hiking, or camping. Those who prefer to move more slowly said they enjoy hobbies like knitting or sewing, as well as baking. Some hobbies however, are well-liked regardless of someone’s personality. More than four in 10 (44%) say cooking is one of their favorite hobbies.
Coming together through cooking
Out of all respondents, 71 percent use food and cooking as a way to connect with people. Both groups prefer connecting in small, intimate gatherings (49%) versus seeing friends in a larger setting (24%). Americans also say they’re doing this more often, preparing an extra home-cooked meal per week on average since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, most respondents believe their cooking skills are also improving (67%) during isolation. Slower-paced respondents were more likely to agree their kitchen skills are getting better (71% vs. 55%).
“Whether you identify as someone who moves quickly or as someone who likes to take your time, giving ourselves some much-deserved grace by taking a moment to slow down and enjoy life is essential after the year we’ve just had,” says Chris Robins, CEO of the Appliances & Cookware business unit at Newell Brands, in a statement. “Cooking up new recipes is one way to do this while at home – giving you the time to show yourself, your family and your friends some extra love.”
Taking it slow may be good for your health
Unfortunately, not everyone has time to enjoy hobbies like cooking. Fast-moving respondents were less likely to feel like they had enough time in their day for self-care and hobbies. Seventy-three percent of faster-paced Americans say they take the time for self-care, compared to 82 percent of their slow-moving counterparts.
When looking at differences between the two groups, the survey also finds those who move more methodically are more likely to take daily naps (27% vs. 19%) and are also more likely to be health-conscious (38% vs. 29%). However, those who take their time are also more likely to report thriving under pressure (71% vs. 58%).
“Cooking is universally loved, and we’re thrilled to see more people pick up cooking as a hobby and trying our recipes. But we acknowledge that to some, cooking can become overwhelming quickly,” Robins adds. “Slow cooking is the perfect way to take the busyness and stress out of cooking, which leaves you with more time to hit that reset button and focus on your priorities — including more quality time with friends and family.”