Why you should stop when everything is in chaos

If there is one thing I’ve learnt over the years it’s how unhealthy and unproductive I become when I’m burnt out and overwhelmed.

So why would I even consider pushing myself to this point?

Well this week it went something like this…

I was already depleted from a busy few weeks preparing and delivering a variety of workshops and talks.  All of which have required mental focus and attention to prepare, and plenty of energy to present.

Normally I’d plan a couple of slow days to recharge and restore before taking on another project.  Not this week though.

We’re on a renovation deadline and I’d booked to have new carpet laid.  This required every room in our house to be upended and days of lifting and dragging furniture around. Not to mention the hours spent emptying cabinets and drawers while endlessly sorting through stuff.

Just living in chaos was exhausting. There were days when I wondered how our home would ever go back together.

Somehow it did and once again I can reach the kitchen bench and find the washing machine.

If I’m honest there were times when (I thought) I was thriving on all the busyness, I felt electric and ready to take on the world.

And this is when things get dangerous for me, because despite my growing physical and mental fatigue I take on more.

I listen to that naggy voice in my head saying…   “But what about….”

What about doing some work?  Writing that new article, starting that next project? Or maybe assembling the new chairs, cleaning out the shed and mulching the garden?

Even though I’ve achieved my goals for the week, I decide I’m not finished and keep going.

What comes next isn’t pretty. I become clumsy, forgetful and start to get in my own way…  because I’m tired.

Frustration leads to tantrums, as I yell at those I love and lose my train of thought.

Your mind and body needs rest if you want to show up full and prepared to be at your best for yourself and for those around you.

You can’t keep going all the time, eventually something gives.  Your health suffers, relationships suffer and you suffer.

Don’t wait until you feel the cracks, the tiredness, the exhaustion and the crankiness to take a break. Running near empty is not good for anyone.

Let’s be clear; self-care and renewal are not optional, they’re essential to your overall well-being.

And once you slow down, you’ll notice your achievements and fill up on fulfilment.  Then you’ll discover that restoration is not only possible, its enjoyable.

I’ve had a great week, I’ve achieved a lot and today I’m taking a break….  the work will still be there tomorrow.