In an world where hustle, instant gratification, and overstimulation is prevalent, rest is often neglected. With good intentions, we keep grinding—over consuming coffee and unhealthy energy drinks. This behavior just further interferes with restful sleep and greatly contributes to illness.
I get it. I’ve been there. In my first year of law school, I lived on 3 hours of sleep and too much espresso. And I paid for it! Anxiety, unhealthy weight loss, etc. Was it necessary to survive 1L year and do well? I thought so, obviously. Was there a healthier way? Possibly—I just never took the time to find out. I wish I had, though.
Not resting—in order to get ahead—can be counterproductive if we aren’t careful. Do you really think your employer is getting your best work product at 3AM all jacked up on caffeine and no sleep? Most likely not. In turn, do you think your family is getting the best version of you when you’re exhausted and sleep deprived? Idk about you, but I’m a beast if I’m running on empty.
This is a friendly reminder to rest. I’m not suggesting giving up that dream or not doing the hard things to achieve extraordinary results. I’m suggesting living a well-balanced life. There, your chances of long lasting success and health are optimal.
God gave us rest as a way to rejuvenate and heal our bodies. Absent rest, we set ourselves up for burnout or even worse, life threatening diseases like cancer.
Strive to be more like Jesus in every way, including at nap time.