As people, we often feel guilty when we decide to take some time off and simply do nothing. This has several reasons behind it. One of them being the hustle culture. If you don't know what that is, here is a brief explanation.
Recent times have seen a significant rise in this culture of putting work above everything else and putting everything you have into working hard. Known as the hustle culture, this lifestyle teaches people that overworking is the only way to earn respect, whether it be from others or yourself.
source: https://www.thedailystar.net/toggle/news/the-hustle-culture-lie-heres-why-2089781
There are many more reasons, such as peer pressure, too high expectations from family. However, I am not going to go into details about those aspects. We can talk more about that in a different post. Today let's focus on why you have to rest.
BURNOUT.
This seems obvious but many people don't consider it. Burnout is an inevitable part of overworking yourself. Let's say you like dancing. You take classes once a week but then your teacher decides you need to do more. Not because you're behind, but because you are really good. He wants to push you to your limits. He wants you to win the gold medal. You follow his orders because he is your coach. You get additional practice, have to watch what you eat. Soon your passion turns into a lifestyle, which then turns into a burden. Yes, you won the gold medal, you scored the highest. Congratulations! However, you are exhausted. You can't even think of the last time you had time for yourself. You decided to take a break from dancing and you are not sure if you will ever go back.
The same thing may happen at work or school. In that case, we could try and look for a new job. Change school for "less demanding" or go on a gap year (if that's an option).
Most of the time, the only thing we can do is to take a step back. If you can't change jobs, ask your boss for fewer mantles. Talk to your school counsler and explain how you feel. If you are in college, consider taking a gap year.
People feel like when they rest, they fall behind. Taking care of yourself is not falling behind.
YOU WILL BE HAPPIER AND CALMER
The second I understood that it is okay I became a much happier person. I try to take my time with all the things I do. Whether it is for school, social media, or getting ready in the morning. I don't put myself down if I haven't managed to finish all the work. It may sound easy, but it took me years to understand that. Remember, you have time. The world isn't going to end in the next 5 minutes.
TIPS AND JOURNAL PROMPTS
Journaling was a huge game-changer for me. It doesn't matter if you use a pen and paper or an app (I recommend trying out the Intellect App). When I have written my thoughts down, they stopped being so overwhelming. I impersonated them, and they stopped controlling me. This will help you understand your feelings better.
Journal prompts
Why do I have to rest? What are my reasons and how will I feel after I do?
What are my favorite ways of relaxing? Explain why.
What can I do to avoid burnout?
Can you identify a specific trigger that always makes you feel overwhelmed?
Three things I accomplished this week.
Write a list of relaxing activities you can do when you’re anxious.
I hope this helped you to understand a bit better. Please, comment with some kind words for others and yourself.