5 Reasons Why You Should Prioritize Rest

You're not a robot, so don't treat yourself like one.

Humans need to rest.

I know, there’s so much to do and little time to do it all.

You can’t possibly afford to step away and take a break.

Hear me out, here’s why you should prioritize rest:

You think you’re too busy to rest.

"The time to relax is when you don't have time for it." ―Sydney Harris

At our busiest is when we wear ourselves out the most.

And you can’t run on an empty tank for long.

Don’t ignore this, it will only hurt you down the road.

Feeling like you’re too busy to rest is a clear indication that you need it.

Your future self will thank you.

Taking breaks doesn’t make you lazy.

“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.”

― John Lubbock

To do nothing, we’re taught, is to be lazy. It’s been hardwired into us.

You know what? Resting isn’t lazy. It’s essential to keep you going.

And rest comes in a variety of ways!

Spending time outside is a great way to rest.

In fact, it takes a lot of effort and discipline to be able to be present in nature.

Plus, time spent in nature is always meaningful.

Busyness isn't valuable.

“Most of the things we need to be most fully alive never come in busyness. They grow in rest.”

― Mark Buchanan

Being so swamped you don't have time to care for yourself, or to enjoy things that matter to you isn't impressive.

Don’t trick yourself into thinking otherwise.

Rest allows you to connect with what is most valuable.

Like your creativity, loved ones, and the world around you.

Filling up your calendar, and refusing to take a pause, will only keep you from nourishing what is meaningful to you and leave you feeling drained and unfulfilled.

Rest is productive.

"Sometimes, the most productive thing that you can do is to step outside and do nothing... relax and enjoy nature."― Melanie Charlene

Even though it seems like resting keeps you from getting things done, it doesn’t. It helps.

Taking the time to nourish your body, mind and spirit is going to help you better show up with integrity for work and other areas of your life.

You’ll be in a better mood, and more focused.

Rest will give you the energy you need for everything.

Your brain needs a break.

“Your calm mind is the ultimate weapon against your challenges. So relax.” ― Bryant McGill

It’s hard to think clearly and effectively when you’re burned out.

As you know, there are so many things competing for our attention at all times.

This creates a huge cognitive load. And your energy is finite.

To do your best thinking, rest to recharge your brain.