Incorporating Rest Into Your Work Grind: Simple Ways to Find Balance in the New Year
As we ease into the new year and settle back into our routines, it’s easy to feel the pressure of work piling up, to-do lists growing, and obligations multiplying. Whether you’re balancing a demanding job, teaching responsibilities, or the never-ending hustle of family life (hello, toddlers!), it’s all too common to find yourself running on empty. Rest often takes a backseat when there’s always something else to be done—work, laundry, meal prep, classes. The list goes on. But in order to stay productive and avoid burnout, it’s crucial to intentionally carve out space for rest in our busy lives.
Here are a few strategies that can help you incorporate more rest into your work grind this year—so you can work smarter, not harder, and sustain your energy over the long haul.
1. Schedule Rest Like You Would Any Other Appointment
It might sound simple, but one of the most effective ways to ensure you’re getting the rest you need is to schedule it. In the midst of a busy workday, it’s easy to skip lunch, push through meetings, or say "just one more task" until it's too late. By intentionally blocking off time for self-care in your calendar, you make it non-negotiable.
For example, you could schedule a 15-minute walk after lunch, a short yoga session before bed, or even a quick meditation break in the morning. If it’s on your calendar, it’s harder to let it slip through the cracks. And the best part? If it’s blocked off, no one else can book a meeting during that time, which means no excuses!
2. Say No More Often (and That’s Okay!)
Another powerful tool for protecting your time and energy is learning the art of saying no. When we’re overcommitted, we end up stretching ourselves thin—and rest becomes an afterthought. By consciously choosing not to say yes to every request or opportunity that comes your way, you can preserve your personal space and peace.
This can be particularly hard, especially when we feel like we should take on more. But being selective about what you say yes to allows you to dedicate more time to the things that really matter, like quality time with loved ones or just having a quiet moment to recharge. Saying no isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength and self-awareness.
3. Tune Into Your Nervous System
Our bodies often send us signals when we’re starting to reach our limit. One of the most effective ways to know when it’s time to take a break is by paying attention to your nervous system. Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or exhausted? These could be signs that your body is telling you it needs rest.
If you notice yourself becoming frazzled or burnt out, it may be time to take a step back and assess what’s on your plate. Are you trying to juggle too many things? Are you feeling physically tense or mentally drained? These signals are your body’s way of indicating that it’s time to pause and recharge—whether through a deep breath, a quick walk, or simply stepping away from the task at hand for a while.
4. Check In With Yourself: Is Your Life Out of Balance?
Life is a delicate balance of work, play, and rest. But when we focus too much on one area—like work—without giving ourselves enough time for relaxation or play, it can lead to burnout and exhaustion.
Ask yourself: Are you constantly working but neglecting fun or downtime? Do you find it difficult to set aside time for family or friends because work is always calling? These are important check-ins to make sure you’re maintaining a well-rounded life. If work is consuming all your time, it might be a sign to reevaluate your schedule and priorities.
Remember, rest is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for maintaining long-term productivity, creativity, and happiness. It’s okay to step back from the grind and make time for the things that nourish you.
5. Ask for Help When Needed
Sometimes, the demands of work and personal life can feel overwhelming, and it’s easy to think that you have to do it all yourself. But one of the best ways to preserve your energy is by asking for help. This might mean having a conversation with your employer about flexible work hours or delegating tasks at home to your partner or family members.
Asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether it's asking for assistance at work, or having a family member pitch in with household chores, sharing the load can give you the breathing room you need to rest and recharge.
Finding Balance in the New Year
The start of a new year is a perfect time to assess how we’re spending our time and energy. Incorporating rest into your routine doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. By scheduling it in, learning to say no, listening to your body, and asking for help, you can create a sustainable routine that nurtures both your work and your well-being.
Remember: rest isn’t an indulgence; it’s a vital part of maintaining your health and happiness. If you don’t make space for it, you risk burning out, losing momentum, or even resenting the things that once brought you joy.
Wishing you a restful, joyful, and balanced year ahead—one where you honor your need for rest just as much as you honor your work and responsibilities. Here's to finding harmony in all that you do!
Take care, and remember, you deserve rest too.
