An Open Letter to Workaholics: The Power of Rest

Allow yourself to enjoy yourself

Dear Fellow Workaholic,

I see you. I see your drive, ambition, and unrelenting desire to push forward. You’re burning the midnight oil, squeezing in just one more task, believing that productivity is measured by how much you can do in a day. Maybe you take pride in being the last one standing at the end of a long workday, or the extra hours make you feel like you're giving more to your job, goals, or loved ones.

You tell yourself that the more you work, the more you can achieve. And in a world that rewards productivity, it feels like there’s no other way. Time off seems like wasted time, a luxury you can't afford. You’ve probably thought, "If I just push a little harder today, I’ll have more time tomorrow," only to find that tomorrow's to-do list is just as long, if not longer. And so, you keep going. You keep proving your worth, one task, one late night, one sacrificed weekend at a time.

I get it. The grind is seductive. The feeling of accomplishment when you check things off the list is real. But there's another side to this pursuit of productivity, one that we often choose to ignore. Burnout’s the side that creeps up when we least expect it

The Painful Truth About Burnout

Here’s the reality: our bodies, minds, and productivity have limits. And when we consistently push beyond those limits, burnout is inevitable. According to research by the World Health Organization, burnout is now officially classified as an "occupational phenomenon." It’s more than just being tired; it’s a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress.

When burnout hits, it’s not just your work that suffers; your health does, too. Chronic overworking can lead to increased risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, weakened immune systems, and even cognitive issues like memory problems. Studies have shown that consistent work without adequate rest can impair brain function, reduce creativity, and even lower overall productivity—precisely the opposite of our aim.

Yet, we don’t realize we’re burning out until it’s too late. It starts small: maybe you’ve noticed you're not sleeping as well or that the tasks you once loved feel like an obligation. Maybe your patience is running thin, and the things that used to make you happy now seem like annoyances. Over time, the constant hustle you once thrived on begins draining you. You stop being productive in the way you once were because your body and mind are screaming for rest.

The Courage to Rest

Here’s the part that might be hardest to hear: taking time for yourself is *not* a sign of laziness. It’s not a weakness. It’s not falling behind. Rest is essential to sustain the very productivity you strive for. Studies show regular breaks, including vacations, can improve focus, creativity, and efficiency. Balance creates the optimal environment for success, not constant hustle.

Allowing yourself to rest is an act of self-preservation. It's recognizing that you're human and your worth is not measured solely by how much you do. You are allowed to step back, breathe, and take care of yourself. In those moments of rest, your mind can recharge, your body can recover, and your creativity can flourish.

Remember, you’re in this for the long haul. Success isn’t a sprint—it’s a marathon. And to get to the finish line, you need to pace yourself. Rest is not the enemy of productivity; it's its partner. It’s the time when your mind resets and your energy refuels. It allows you to come back stronger, more straightforward, and ready to tackle the challenges ahead with renewed vigor.

So, give yourself permission to pause. Take that walk, read that book, or do nothing for a while. Your work will still be there when you return. But when you return to it, you’ll do so with more focus, creativity, and a healthier state of mind.

You are not lazy. You are not falling behind. You’re listening to your body, respecting your limits, and creating space for sustainable success. And that is something to be proud of.

With understanding and encouragement,

Darron Jones - Divo Designs