How to *not* overwork
When are you taking a break today?
Summer is ending.
It’s that time of year where you’re starting to feel a little sluggish. Maybe more tired or low energy?
I bet you aren’t resting. So why is it so damn hard to rest?
Capitalism.
Yes, capitalism indoctrinates us not to rest. It tells us that rest means “you’re doing something bad”.
I’m not trying to call you out here because I am guilty of the same thing.
Since moving to the US, I have unlearned how to deeply rest. This is why I’m in Europe for 3 months, to feel a culture less dominated by capitalism and reconnect to myself.
We know that n’betweeners are overworkers.
We always do a little extra. Overcompensate cause we feel we’re not enough. And constantly overthinking every little thing.
But here is the thing:
Often the REAL work is not to work, but to learn how to rest.
When it comes to rest, let me make one thing clear…
Boundaries are an essential ingredient.
Rest literally means to say no to work.
Rest is a space n’between.
Rest can be one breath or a month of vacation.
But you have to make space for it. You are responsible for answering your needs because you know them best. And to be quite honest, others don’t always have our best interests at heart.
Here are some of ways to set boundaries and not-overwork
Put your phone on do not disturb all day
Remove the thing off your calendar that you feel “you should do”, but actually don't have to do (and truthfully not in your highest values).
Simplify a task - do not do that extra thing that would "look good".
Stop explaining yourself to your friend/colleague when you say no to something
Block time for “REST” in your calendar
Treat yourself with something delicious at random times of the day - and not after having accomplished something.
Hit reply and tell me other ways you make space for you.
Sending you a hug
Nora
PS. Looking to find an actual space of retreat and rest? Join our special intimate n’betweener gathering Oct 22-23rd 2022.