There’s much work to be done and it might already feel like we’re behind. And certainly we must guard against laziness and neglecting the work we’ve been call to do. But some seasons are particularly hard on our soul and we must remember to give ourselves a break from time to time as well.
Of course, we were created to work and we’re driven to accomplish whatever tasks are on our agenda for today. And, for the most part, we have no problem pushing ourselves and taking joy in checking off the items on our to-do list.
But sometimes the demands of life require more of us and we’re no longer able to give 100%.
We don’t have the same capacity when we’re running on fumes. And we’re not being kind or loving to ourselves when we push ourselves to the point of burning out.
Giving ourselves a break is allowing ourselves to downshift and not demanding the same output as when we’re at full capacity.
For example, when we’re not feeling well, we need more time to rest and recover. Unfortunately, life doesn’t stop and there are things still to be done.
But giving ourselves a break is perhaps allowing for an extra day or so to do what we could typically do in a single day. Or it might be intentionally choosing to fail in a particular area to prioritize our wellbeing.
It’s also not beating ourselves up when it’s harder to focus and we just want to take a nap or sit and do nothing for a while.
In the end, this is simply caring for our souls and not pretending we’re robots. But even robots need to recharge their batteries from time to time.
Life is hard at times and it’s okay to give yourself a break. Your soul will thank you and your recovery will bless others as well.
Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash
