In his book "The Obstacle Is the Way," Ryan Holiday emphasizes the common human tendency to operate at a relaxed pace, postponing actions that require urgency. This mindset leads to missed opportunities and an accumulation of challenges that can feel overwhelming when faced later. We often underestimate the need for decisive action in pursuit of our goals.

Holiday suggests that our expectations of a steady and leisurely world are misguided. When we hesitate or don't act swiftly, we are surprised when significant achievements remain out of reach. The author highlights the importance of recognizing the need to accelerate our efforts, push past obstacles, and take advantage of the opportunities that arise, rather than waiting for them to come to us.