As the year winds down it’s tempting to cram as much as possible into our breaks. The pressure to catch-up on tasks, socialise and have fun can leave little room for what we truly need, rest. But pushing forward without pause doesn’t necessarily guarantee a fulfilling break – and it can even lead to burnout. Instead, we can reframe this time as an opportunity to pause, reset, and reconnect with what matters most by carving out space for rest, reflection and renewal.
Why Rest Feels Hard (and Why It’s Worth It)
In a culture that glorifies busyness, and equates constant activity with productivity and achievement, it can be hard to separate rest from ’laziness’ or something to ‘earn’ after pushing through and exhausting ourselves with tasks. This mindset often leads to a cycle of overload throughout the year, where rest is continuously postponed in favour of ticking off one more task or reaching one more deadline. The result? We stay perpetually drained, and ultimately less effective.
But rest does not equal the absence of effort, it’s a foundational part of productivity. Rest allows us to replenish, reset and realign, helping us work smarter, not harder. Without rest we lose clarity, creativity and focus, the very things that drive meaningful productivity. It’s also more than just sleep or relaxation, it’s allowing your brain to shift gears. When we pause, we activate our brains default mode network, which is responsible for processing ideas and connecting dots in ways we simply can’t when focused on tasks.
The Types of Rest You Need
Not all rest is created equal. True restoration involves different types to address a specific need. Take some time this holiday season to reflect on the kids of rest that will serve you best:
- Physical Rest: This includes sleep, but also lighter forms of rest like stretching, walking, or simply lying down. If you’ve been physically overworking, give your body time to recover.
- Mental Rest: For a cluttered mind, try taking breaks from decision-making and problem-solving. Activities like journaling or simply looking out the window can help your brain unwind.
- Emotional Rest: If you’ve been navigating emotionally taxing situations, make space for activities that bring joy or comfort, like connecting with loved ones or enjoying music.
- Creative Rest: For those who feel stuck or uninspired, creative rest might involve something playful – like painting, baking, or exploring new ideas in a low-pressure way.
How to Build Intentional Rest Into Your Holiday
Resting during the holidays doesn’t mean abandoning structure entirely. Purposeful rest allows you to reset without losing sight of your goals. Here’s how to create a rhythm of rest that recharges you without guilt:
1. Reflect on What You Need
Take a moment to evaluate how you’re feeling. Are you exhausted, unfocused, or simply burnt out and unmotivated? This will help you identify the type of rest that will benefit you the most.
2. Rest in Small Doses
Rest doesn’t have to take up a chunk of your holiday time. Take small breaks throughout the day that offer relief without disrupting your flow. This could be a five-minute stretch, savouring a cup of tea or taking a minute to journal. Building these moments into your holiday will help keep you feeling balanced.
3. Embrace “Active” Rest
Active rest involves engaging in low-pressure activities that feel restorative. Cooking a meal, creating art, or even reorganizing your space in a mindful way can give your brain and body the reset they need. Choose activities that feel nourishing, not depleting.
4. Set Boundaries for Your Time
Protecting your rest often requires setting clear boundaries. This might mean limiting work emails, saying no to unnecessary commitments, or designating specific times to unplug from technology. Create boundaries to help you recharge without the guilt, and give yourself permission to pause.
5. Plan Lightly, Reflect Deeply
Use this time not to dive into rigid goal-setting for the next year, but to think broadly about what truly matters to you. What do you want more of in 2024—connection, creativity, balance? Jot down a few guiding intentions, leaving the specifics for later.
Embracing the Holiday Pause
As we prepare for a new year, it’s important to remember that productivity isn’t just about action. True productivity stems from balance, knowing when to push and when to pause. By embracing the art of the holiday pause, you’re not just resting; you’re building resilience. You’re creating space for innovation and preparing yourself to enter the new year with energy and clarity.
At Organise.Curate.Design, we’re here to support you in building a life that prioritises both progress and balance. Make rest a part of your productivity toolkit – not just this holiday season, but for the year to come.
