Embracing the Power of Rest

This summer, I’ve decided to take an extra two months off my corporate job, on top of the six weeks of leave I usually take to spend time with my child. It’s a chance for me to focus on my well-being, to read, reflect, go for walks, and practice yoga—activities that help me recharge both physically and mentally. It’s also an opportunity to think about the longer term future – how do I build and extend my coaching practice, where do I want to use my energy, what needs less attention and what needs more?

You might wonder, why take this time off? After all, there’s a common belief that time away should be used for productivity, for achieving something tangible. While many colleagues and friends have applauded it, there is a subset who have counselled to not “waste it”. In other words, or sometimes more explicitly, they are wary I will get to the end of it and feel I don’t have something tangible to show.

This mindset can be particularly challenging for someone like me, who has ADHD and is prone to burnout. Despite all my training and study, I can still take on too much, start things prematurely, or become so enthused by an interest that I neglect my wellbeing. This will always happen on occassion, but if you already have a neuro difference, or are a people pleaser or the family “organiser”, that makes behaviours like this more likely, being alive to the risk of this is key.

In the fast-paced world we live in, there’s often an expectation to always be working towards something. This is even true of wellbeing with many professionals in particular reporting “wellbeing burnout” due to the the endless list of things we should all do for our physical wellbeing, but feeling a deep sense of shame or guilt for not achieving it all.

However, positive psychology and coaching principles teach us the value of rest, reflection, and self-care. It’s not about wasting time; it’s about investing in ourselves so we can show up stronger and more present in all areas of our lives.

During my sabbatical, I won’t be ticking off a to-do list or achieving specific goals. Instead, I’ll be focusing on my well-being, recharging my energy, and nurturing my sense of purpose. This time of rest is not only beneficial for me but also allows me to return to my work, coaching practice and personal life with renewed clarity and vigor.

If you’re considering taking time off, whether for a career break or a short period of leave, I encourage you to embrace it fully. Even if it’s a day off work for yourself.

Here are some reflective questions to consider in the meantime:

What activities help you recharge and restore your energy?

How can you incorporate rest into your routine without feeling guilty?

What would it look like to prioritise wellbeing?

I encourage you to think of these yourselves. Whether you are taking a day, a week, or longer off, how can you time to nurture your wellness?

How can you invite more energy balance and rest into your everyday life?