Dear Miss Storybelle

     Today I got a message from one of my Instagram followers asking me- 

    'Dear Miss Storybelle, I'm so burnt out from work, but I feel guilty whenever I take a break. How do I stop feeling like I have to be productive 24/7?'

    It made me realize this is such a common struggle. Productivity culture has convinced us that our value comes from how much we do. The best way to combat this guilt is to reframe rest as an investment in yourself. Think of rest like charging your phone—without it, you can’t function properly.

    We live in a world where “hustle” is glorified. Social media is saturated with content that idolizes waking up at 5 a.m., working 80-hour weeks, and never taking a day off. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with being ambitious or hardworking, the dark side of productivity culture is the guilt that creeps in when we’re not “doing enough.” That guilt can become a toxic cycle, leaving us drained, overwhelmed, and unable to truly enjoy our lives.

    But here’s the truth: Rest is not laziness. Rest is a biological necessity, a mental reset, and a spiritual renewal. When we’re well-rested, we think more clearly, make better decisions, and approach challenges with creativity and resilience. It’s time to flip the narrative and embrace rest for what it really is: a superpower

    Rest is not just about lying on the couch and binge-watching your favorite series (although that’s valid too). Rest encompasses sleep, downtime, mental breaks, and moments of peace. Studies show that adequate sleep improves memory, cognitive function, and emotional regulation. Short breaks during work can boost focus and productivity. And periods of “active rest”—like taking a walk, practicing yoga, or meditating—can enhance physical health and mental well-being.

    When we deprive ourselves of rest, our bodies and minds suffer. Chronic stress and burnout are linked to numerous health issues, from heart disease to depression. Yet, many of us ignore the warning signs, pushing through fatigue in the name of productivity. Why? Because we’ve been conditioned to view rest as unproductive—a waste of time. But in reality, rest is the foundation upon which productivity and happiness are built.

    When you prioritize rest, the benefits extend far beyond your personal well-being. You become more present with loved ones, more effective in your work, and more connected to your purpose. Rest enables you to show up as the best version of yourself, which has a ripple effect on everyone around you.

    It’s also worth noting that embracing rest can inspire others to do the same. When you model healthy boundaries and self-care, you give others permission to prioritize their well-being too. In a culture that glorifies busyness, choosing rest can be a radical act of resistance.

    Reframing rest as an investment in yourself is not just a mindset shift; it’s a life shift. It’s about recognizing that you are worthy of care and compassion, just as you are. It’s about rejecting the toxic notion that your value lies in your productivity and embracing the truth that rest is a powerful, essential, and transformative part of life.

    So, the next time you feel guilty for resting, remember this: You wouldn’t let your phone battery die without charging it. Why let yourself? Rest is your recharge. It’s what keeps you going, growing, and thriving. Prioritize it. Protect it. And most importantly, enjoy it.