Answered by Sayyidi Habib Umar bin Hafiz (may Allah protect him and benefit us by him)
Sometimes when I am busy, I read my awrad quickly or whilst walking, and without presence of heart. Would it be better for me to read a smaller amount with presence?
Yes, reading a small amount with presence of heart and seeking humility in this, is better than a lot without presence. Imam al-Haddad said: “Rushing one’s wird removes its light.” So, one should read one’s wird with calmness and stillness. It may sometimes be possible to read quickly and still maintain presence. However, if reading fast means you have no presence of heart, then this should be avoided.