Resting is one of the most productive things you can do.

Yes, you read that right.

Sounds wrong doesn’t it. We are told to hustle, be busy all the time. Guess what, for most of us that is not productive.

Take a Break

Rest is a completely valid form of productivity, and it’s important to not let anyone tell you otherwise.

It’s normal to feel guilty about taking the time to rest. In a lot of work cultures, it can be frowned upon or looked down on for taking time off for yourself. Remember, just because someone else isn’t prioritising themselves over others doesn’t mean you have to do the same.

Hustle culture is not a thing that’s needed anymore.

Signs that you need more rest:

• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Inability to focus
• Lack of motivation
• Increased anxiety

How Does Doing Less Mean Being More Productive?

By doing less, your body gets a chance to rest and recuperate. If you’re constantly switched on, doing task after task after task, do you notice how drained you are at the end of the day? How difficult it is to keep that mind ticking along?

By taking the time out of your day to rest, you reduce those symptoms of burnout like fatigue and irritability.

It’s important to remember that prioritising rest is prioritising your own health and wellbeing.

How Can I Incorporate More Rest Into My Busy Routine?

Being busy doesn’t mean you won’t be able to find the time to rest. You have to plan it.

You could plan to take a day off work every month or two, to give yourself a break. Every 6 months you could plan a longer break, a few days off just for you.

Short term, even a quick 20 minute nap can help boost your productivity and restore energy.

“Don’t underestimate the power of resting. It builds you back unlike anything.” – Hira Nagda

Make Sure the Rest Is Actually Restful

Sometimes when we think we are resting, we still don’t feel refreshed or energised. This could be because the resting you’re doing isn’t restorative resting. You could be relaxing on the couch, but your mind is still filled with stressful thoughts like deadlines or emails.

So how can you be sure you’re really resting?

Take the time to incorporate mindfulness while resting. Mindfulness helps to focus your mind on what you are sensing or feeling in the moment. It helps to regulate your mind and emotions, so you can truly rest.

Now’s the time. Press the pause button and prioritise yourself!

If you need extra help, book a free discovery call with me today and let’s chat.