We’ve all heard it: “You can rest when you’re dead.” But what if skipping rest is exactly why you feel exhausted, unfocused, and stuck?
On this week’s episode of Ms. Biz, we’re challenging one of the biggest lies hustle culture tells us; that rest is unproductive. Spoiler alert: rest isn’t just a break. It’s a command, a strategy, and often, the missing link to clarity, creativity, and success.
When Hustle Becomes Harmful
For years, we believed rest was a waste of time; either sleeping or zoning out in front of the TV. Productivity was my love language. Until everything changed.
After being diagnosed with cancer, Brooke’s sister looked her in the eye and said, “Your stress and lack of rest may have made your body more vulnerable.” That shook her.
Then came a sermon, an entire message centered around rest. The pastor reminded us that the Fourth Commandment is to “Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy.” That’s not a suggestion. It’s a divine directive.
Rest isn’t optional; it’s sacred.
Rest Is More Than Sleep
We tend to reduce rest to naps or Netflix. But intentional rest is something deeper. It’s about:
- Spiritual connection: Praying, journaling, worshiping, reading the Word.
- Mental stillness: Detaching from hustle thoughts and giving your brain space to breathe.
- Physical restoration: Actually allowing your body to repair with proper sleep.
- Emotional clarity: Creating quiet moments where your feelings can catch up to your pace.
It’s in these moments that we reconnect; with God, ourselves, and our purpose.
Why Entrepreneurs Struggle to Rest
Let’s be honest: many of us feel guilty for resting.
Maybe your to-do list whispers, “lazy.” Maybe your identity is tied to productivity. Maybe you just can’t turn your mind off. (Been there.) But rest requires a mindset shift. You have to believe that rest multiplies your results, not delays them.
Here’s the wild part: science backs this up.
- Microsoft Japan tested a 4-day work week. Result? Productivity increased 40%.
- Chick-fil-A closes on Sundays, arguably one of the busiest fast-food days, and yet they outperform competitors in revenue per store.
That’s what we call God math. It doesn’t make sense on paper, but it works.
The Gift of Intentional Rest
Rest doesn’t have to be fancy. It just has to be intentional.
Here are a few practical ways to build rest into your life:
- Schedule a Sabbath: Block off a full day or a few hours each week for no work—just spiritual, mental, or emotional recharge.
- Try Mind Vibes: A local experience with vibration beds, healing frequencies, and guided meditation. It may sound “woo,” but it worked wonders for me.
- Create your sanctuary: Whether it’s your car, a beach, or a quiet room, find a place where you can go be alone with God.
- Take a digital Sabbath: Step away from your screens and be present in real life.
- Worship through music or instruments: Not to perform, but to connect.
Your Best Ideas Might Come in the Stillness
We often assume that success comes from doing more. But sometimes, your next big breakthrough is waiting in the quiet, in the margin.
So this week, we’re encouraging you to rest. Ask yourself:
What would change in your business if you trusted that rest multiplies results?
Your body, your faith, and your creativity will thank you.
If this message hit home, listen to the full episode of the Ms. Biz Podcast wherever you stream. And if you found it helpful, leave a review or share it with a fellow go-getter who needs a reminder to slow down.
Let’s grow—spiritually, emotionally, and strategically.
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