Take Time to Enjoy
As a podcast host interviewing people on their way to their dreams, I meet nothing but hard workers and dedicated dreamers trying to be their best selves. A lot of these people are my friends or people I went to school with, so I’ve seen them outside of their jobs. They’re some of the most fun and exciting people you’ll meet, and it’s reminded me of a classic motto, “Work hard, play hard.” Everyone has to work if they want something, but what happens when you work too long and too hard at once. Burnout is the right answer. It’s real, and it does way more harm than good.
It’s important that every professional takes some downtime to replenish and focus on their own wellbeing. No one’s of any use if they’re dragging themselves to work. That’s where vacations or off days come in. So, what do you do when you have those days? Well, first savor every moment. This is a chance for you to not have to think about your job or business. You’re still a person with your own likes and hobbies. So, whether you prefer seeing family or even being alone, spend it well.
Secondly, take the time to enjoy what you have now. Your friends, family, pets, or I don’t know, that old car you still have. You still have them after all this time, and so many rejections, failures, and setbacks. There’s something you still have and this is the time to appreciate that, because nothing lasts forever. So, whether it’s hanging out with your friends, going to family gatherings, or taking your dog to the park, it helps free you from the stress of your job.
Look at all the things that give you peace of mind. If you’re a spiritual person, it’s praying or reading scripture, or meditating. If you’re a creative, maybe it’s painting, writing, playing instruments, or making collages. If you’re materialistic, maybe it’s shopping. The point is, whatever kind of person you are, these moments prepare you even more for job you’ll have to get back to.
We can’t afford to let ourselves fall backwards because we couldn’t put our papers down and say “I need to breathe.” That’s where people fall into a trap. The hardest worker I know are also some of the most fun people to be around, because they understand that they’re not robots. They need this time for themselves, and so do you.