I don’t know about you, but there’s enough items on my “want to do” and “have to do” lists that I could literally be “productive” all of my waking hours. And we know that’s not practical for many reasons, but mostly because it's not sustainable. People need to rest and recharge and have breaks to be the best of who they are.
Because I’ve realized that a paradox exists- sometimes rest IS productive (like when you take a break and come back to a task with better energy and focus) and sometimes the things you do while being productive ARE PROVIDING A FEELING OF REST (like the refreshed mental feeling you get from a clean inbox or an organized fridge)
So, I’m often grappling with the question- how do I know when to rest and when to work? This can be especially tricky because sometimes rest is a legitimate need and sometimes, rest is a convenient excuse. The annoying but also realistic answer to that is that it is going to be different for every person.
Here’s a few ways that I know I am truly in need of rest:
I feel “OFF” or “not myself” for a reason I can’t identify
My temper is shorter than usual
I don’t enjoy things I normally do or enjoy them to the same extent
Physical signs like abnormal body pains, excessive yawning
Lack of creativity
I also know a few signs that tell me that I’m in need of some productivity:
My physical spaces (car, desk, purse, kitchen) are messy or cluttered
I feel uncomfortable in my clothes or appearance
I feel anxious or stressed
I’m bored with my mindless activities (Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, TV)
I forget something that I’m normally on top of
If you stopped to think about it, what are the signals that you send yourself when you are in need of rest or work? How do you tackle the balance between productivity and recharging? Tell me in a comment below!
Hey, I’m Meghan
I’m here sharing content all about pursuing your own version of more and loving how you feel doing it. If that sounds good to you, stick around and let’s be friends!
