June 28, 2025

We live in a world that glorifies constant busyness, hustling as we call it in Nigeria. But no one taught us the importance of rest. Resting isn’t quitting, it’s how we heal. Resting is not weakness, either, as some might assume. Rather, it is a way of rejuvenating and returning to oneself.    Why We Don’t Value Rest Growing up, many of us were programmed to believe that our worth was tied to our output. We celebrate packed schedules, lack of play time, every minute filled with chores, and relentless efforts at the expense of our health.    My story I used to be that person who would not rest until everything on her to-do list was sorted out. Rest was not even an option. There were days I would be completely exhausted, and instead of resting, I pushed myself to do even more.   I started experiencing burnout and would lash out at the slightest provocation. I lost motivation and the will to try anything new. Constantly feeling sick and angry.  I was just busy but not productive.    My healing came the day I told myself, you know what? I‘ve had enough, I need a break! That day, I asked for help with my children, took some days off from work, and decided to rest.   I felt a kind of relief I hadn’t experienced in a long time. I slept, watched my favourite program, and reconnected with myself. I felt alive again. That for me was my eureka moment!  Resting isn’t laziness but an investment in your future self.   The Effects of Ignoring Rest: Burnout  Poor health Lack of motivation  Healing Through Rest: What It Looks Like Healing sometimes doesn’t always mean deep therapy sessions or sudden life changes. Sometimes, all you need is;  Sleep in on the weekend Turn off your phone for a few hours Say “no” to something that drains you Take a walk by yourself or with a loved one Do nothing and let that be enough You don’t need permission to rest. You only need to remember: you’re human, not a machine.   Resting isn’t quitting, it’s Rejuvenating Quitting means giving up. Resting means pausing to reorganise. Rest: Is strategic It’s intentional It’s empowering By resting, you’re telling yourself:“I matter enough to take care of myself.” And that’s not weakness. That’s wisdom.   Let This Be Your Reminder Today If you’re tired, rest.If your spirit feels stretched thin, pause.If your inner critic is screaming, “keep going or else,”breathe—and listen instead to your body’s whisper: “Slow down. You’re safe.” You are not falling behind-you are resting, healing, and becoming. And that is powerful!   Final Thought: You Deserve the Break You’ve Been Avoiding Society may tell you to keep going, but your body and mind know the truth: Rest isn’t quitting. It’s necessary for growth, healing, and long-term success.   So today, permit yourself to pause. The work will still be there, but you’ll return to it with more clarity, energy, and resilience.   How do you prioritize rest in your busy life? Please share in the comments!