Does taking time for yourself seem counterproductive to your goals? Are you “all work and no play?” Some of the most successful people in the world prioritize rest and invest in themselves! Here are some reasons why taking time for yourself is beneficial and worthwhile.
To be more productive
“Work harder and smarter, for shorter periods of time. And then rest! Take your lunch break, don’t work later, and don’t work at home. You will actually be more productive that way.”
– Amanda Pell, thebusinesswomanmedia.com
When it comes to working towards your goals, taking time for yourself may sound like the laziest, most unproductive thing you could do. But studies show that intentionally stepping away from work is a highly effective strategy that can actually make you more productive! Because taking some time for yourself, when done strategically, improves your focus, making you work harder and better. The time you spend investing in your well-being is not only valuable in and of itself, but it also has the potential to change the way you work. Who knew rest could be so powerful!
To prevent burnout
If you’re constantly going full-tilt, never taking time for yourself, you will, more than likely, burn out. Merriam-Webster defines burnout as “exhaustion of physical or emotional strength or motivation usually as a result of prolonged stress or frustration.”
Burnout is incredibly destructive to your emotional well-being and your physical health. According to MayoClinic, work-life imbalance can cause stress, fatigue, insomnia, even high blood pressure and heart disease! Burnout also affects how much work you get done, how happy you are, and even how you treat other people. It’s far easier to prevent burnout than it is to recover from it. So if you’re feeling like you’re at risk for burnout, here are some ideas to help you be proactive and make some time for yourself:
- Evaluate your workload and your schedule. Is it reasonable? Are you trying to tackle too many things? Do you overcommit?
- Don’t wait until you’re exhausted or overwhelmed to take some time for yourself. Make it a priority.
- Don’t let your schedule control you. Be the boss of your time. You can set the pace of your life.
- Pick up a hobby or two. Intentionally spend time on yourself instead of simply getting distracted and “wasting time.”
- Don’t let other people make you feel bad for taking time for yourself. Learn how to say “no” (without guilt!) when your plate is too full.
- Give yourself plenty of “white space” or margin to invest in yourself. Whether that’s spending time with your family or drinking a cup of coffee while it’s still hot, little changes here and there can have a big impact.
Taking time for yourself (without feeling guilty) is a difficult habit to form. But there are so many benefits to intentionally stepping away from work to exercise, spend time with family, get proper sleep, and relax. So this week, try taking time for yourself! It’s good for you and your business.