Honey, it’s a lie. Your dreams ain’t gonna’ die.

May 18

HIIIII FRIEND!

I’ve been talking with so many amazing women, and seeing their posts online, and what I’ve noticed is there’s a lie that’s taken hold of us. It’s sitting deeeeep inside, floating in the gut. And it’s poisoning us! The lie IS that if high achievers with big dreams take a break, their aspirations will wither and die. I know it’s something you might feel too—the constant yearning for a break but feeling trapped by the belief that your dreams will wait for no one. This mindset can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and even a loss of passion for the goals you cherish. But guess what? Taking a break isn’t the enemy of success; it’s actually a powerful tool for achieving it - and even better? Enjoying it when you get it.

The Myth of Relentless Hustle

We've been sold the idea that relentless hustle is the only path to success, especially for ambitious women like us. The fear of falling behind can push us to keep going, even when we’re exhausted, often at the expense of our well-being. But this approach is unsustainable. Our minds and bodies aren't machines; they need rest to function at their best. Without it, we risk burning out, which is far more detrimental to our dreams than taking a well-timed pause.

The Science of Rest and Productivity

Research shows that rest and recovery are crucial for maintaining high performance. When we take breaks, our brains consolidate memories, process information, and come up with creative solutions. A well-rested mind is better at tackling complex problems and thinking outside the box. Chronic stress and fatigue, on the other hand, can impair cognitive function, reduce creativity, and slow down decision-making.

Real-Life Examples

Consider the practices of some of the world's most successful companies. Google, for example, offers nap pods (yes please) and encourages employees to take breaks to recharge, understanding that a refreshed team is more productive and innovative. Airbnb promotes a culture of balance and well-being by offering wellness stipends for employees to use on self-care activities.

High-profile women have also embraced this philosophy. Arianna Huffington, founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, advocates for the importance of sleep and downtime, sharing her journey in her book "The Sleep Revolution." Oprah Winfrey practices daily meditation and prioritizes time for reflection and self-care, which she attributes to her sustained success and well-being.

At my company, Space Creatorz, we prioritize people over profit, with humanity being one of our core valuez. We promote a culture that values balance and well-being, ensuring our team members have the flexibility to recharge and pursue their passions outside of work. We believe that a refreshed and rejuvenated team is more innovative and productive, which ultimately leads to better results for our clients. By fostering an environment where taking a break is seen as a strength, we empower our team to bring their best selves to every project. This approach not only enhances our team's well-being but also drives the creative and high-quality work that our clients have come to expect from us.

Breaking the Cycle

To break the cycle of relentless hustle, we need to change the narrative around rest and success. Here are a few creative strategies to help you integrate breaks into your routine without feeling guilty:

Creative Breaks: Engage in activities that stimulate your creativity and give your mind a break from routine tasks. Try sketching, journaling, or even colouring. I’m a huge fan of The Five Minute Journal which I incorporate into my daily routines.
Digital Detox: Set aside specific times during the day to disconnect from digital devices. Use this time to read a book, take a walk, or enjoy a hobby. I also practice using no phones for 1 hour after waking up.
Movement Breaks: Incorporate movement into your day with short exercise sessions, yoga, or stretching. Physical activity can refresh your mind and body. I try to get up in some way at least once per hour even if it’s just to walk around the room.
Mindfulness Moments: Practice mindfulness techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or simply being present in the moment. These practices can reduce stress and enhance focus. Set a 5 minute timer first thing after waking up, that’s what I’ve been trying and it’s working wonders to start my day off right.
Nature Escapes: Spend time outdoors, whether it’s a walk in the park or a weekend getaway. Nature has a calming effect and can help reset your mind.

Taking a break DOES NOT mean abandoning your dreams; it means nurturing yourself so you can pursue them with even greater passion and resilience, and ultimately get to enjoy them when they inevitable come true. By recognizing the importance of rest, we can create a sustainable path to success that honours both our ambitions and our well-being. Let's change the narrative and embrace the idea that rest isn’t the enemy of achievement, but a crucial component of it.

Join the Conversation

If you want to dive deeper into why taking breaks can actually fuel your success, I’ve got a podcast episode you’ll love. Check out "Reality Check: Time to Stop That 24/7 Hustle." Give it a listen and let’s redefine what it means to be successful together.

Stay cool, stay calm, and stay rich.

Netty