In an era where constant connectivity and instant responses have become the norm, former government strategist and meditation teacher Alex Snider offers a counterpoint in his debut book, "Sometimes You Should Be Late: The Quiet Rebellion of Slowing Down in a World Obsessed With Speed" (Practical Inspiration Publishing, July 7, 2026). Snider, who spent over 15 years in high-pressure federal environments, argues that the pervasive culture of chronic urgency is eroding our values, relationships, and humanity.
Drawing on contemplative practice, psychology, and leadership insights, Snider explores the historical origins of punctuality and lateness, introducing concepts like "authentic lateness," "time alchemy," and "standing behind your own clock." He emphasizes that the book is not about rejecting ambition or efficiency but about creating space to be intentional with attention and energy. "Both our speedy rabbit energy and our inner slower sloth have their places," Snider notes, cautioning that speed becomes problematic when it overrides our values, leading to a loss of patience, perspective, compassion, and connection.
The book has garnered praise from notable authors. Daniel H. Pink, #1 New York Times bestselling author of "The Power of Regret" and "When," remarks, "This book reminds us that time's real value lies in the human moments we refuse to rush." Jamie Metzl, bestselling author of "Superconvergence" and "The AI Ten Commandments," adds, "'Sometimes You Should Be Late' shows why slowing down in the right contexts isn't an obstacle to progress, but a prerequisite for it."
Snider's perspective was profoundly shaped by a life-altering bike accident that forced him to reconsider urgency and attention. He is a meditation teacher and co-founder of Mindful Fed, and holds degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service. The book is available at Amazon.com, Bookshop.org, and BN.com.
Ultimately, "Sometimes You Should Be Late" offers a new paradigm for experiencing time—not as something to manage or outrun, but as something to engage with awareness and intention. In a society that rewards rushing, Snider reminds us that slowing down can reconnect us with what truly matters. For more information, visit alexsnider.onlinepresskit247.com.
