Choosing a Season of Rest and Rejuvenation

Sometimes I wish that life would slow down, and some days, I convince myself that it will. That’s probably not true, though. I tend to take on projects and manage my calendar in seasons. This method implies that a “season” of less work and fewer projects, a period when life might slow down, is just around the corner.

Though true for some, it never seems to be a reality for me. But this is probably my own fault. I say yes to a new project or idea, and before I know it, a new thing begins before I’ve completed the current one.

A part of me works well under pressure, and I thrive by staying busy and productive. Another part of me realizes that sometimes I wear myself out and may need to listen more carefully to my body and prioritize my physical and mental needs.

I believe that I’m naturally wired to keep moving. Both of my parents were always doing something — volunteering, engaging in their photography hobby, or working in the yard or on a car. To this day, my mother finds it difficult to merely sit and relax. Not a day passes when she isn’t making progress on something in her garage or on a woodworking project.

I don’t think life will slow down by accident; as one thing ends, another shows up. I’m sure that you can relate. Have you ever told yourself you’ll do something “after I graduate,” “once I get that promotion,” or “when the kids have grown up?”

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We’ve all said something similar. However, the reality is that nothing important happens by accident.

If I want life to slow down, I’m going to have to be intentional about what I choose to commit to and what I decide to avoid or delay. The same is true of staying busy — I don’t want to be active just for the sake of it. Instead, I want to be productive — for myself, and the people and the causes I believe in. It’s important for me to carefully select what receives my time and energy.

Life is short, and whether I’m staying busy or in a season of rest and rejuvenation, both have a profound impact on my life.

I still have to decide on the projects I want to commit to and those I can bypass. The choice is mine, and either one is OK.

Therein lies the challenge for me: knowing when to pick myself up and keep moving, and when to let myself stay in a season of rest. I believe that resting and producing are equally important.

The friction for most people is probably in understanding that both are valuable and OK. Whether you are resting or “doing,” allow yourself to be fully engaged in that moment or process.

Whether you’re taking action or a break, don’t let excuses or peer pressure keep you from doing what is best for you.

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