Making the climb: Why it is alright to allow yourself rest and relaxation

In the relentless pace of today's world, you find yourself caught in the whirlwind of societal expectations. The pressure to achieve milestones by a certain age or to meet predefined standards is palpable.

For instance, women are expected to embrace marriage by 30. Meanwhile, the eldest child is supposed to secure a high-paying job straight out of college. Even within the Christian community, the weight of embodying the ideals of Christ and dedicating every ounce of energy to church duties is pervasive.

In this climb towards societal benchmarks, there is a subtle demand to be a flawless reflection of predefined norms. Straying from these expectations invites judgment and mockery from those around you.

As you navigate this journey, anxiety becomes a constant companion. It is a byproduct of the relentless pursuit of goals and daily responsibilities. 

However, this should not be different.

You are entitled to moments of rest. It is crucial to recognize that stepping back and taking a break from the constant climb toward societal expectations is okay. The belief that your worth is solely determined by meeting deadlines and achieving predefined milestones is not only unrealistic. It is also detrimental to your well-being.

Like runners in a race, you need moments of rest in your journey. Consider a marathon where runners have designated points to sit, catch their breath, and refuel. 

In car races too, there are pit stops. These allow the drivers to refuel and make necessary adjustments to the vehicle.

And remember the creation in Genesis?

God created the Earth in six days. Each day, He formed different aspects of the world, such as light, land, sea, plants, and animals. After completing the creation, God rested on the seventh day. This emphasizes the importance of rest and setting a pattern for humans.

The concept of rest is not a sign of weakness or failure but a testament to the necessity of rejuvenation.

Rest plays a crucial role in maintaining good mental health. It alleviates stress and anxiety, helping you approach tasks with a calmer demeanor. Regular periods of relaxation contribute to improved concentration. They enable you to tackle your responsibilities more effectively. It is not a deviation from your journey. It is a strategic pause that ultimately aids in achieving your aspirations.

Moreover, physical well-being is closely tied to adequate rest. Restorative sleep, for instance, is vital for your body's repair and rejuvenation. It promotes better health and increases your stamina, ensuring you have the energy to face the demands of your daily life. 

But perhaps it is not the need for rest and relaxation you are worried about. Perhaps you are anxious about what society will say. 

It is entirely understandable that the fear of societal judgment weighs heavily on your mind.

The fear of societal disapproval may make you imagine scenarios where friends and family question your choices. They might wonder why you have not reached certain milestones, making you feel like you have let them down. 

In the context of religious expectations, the fear of not living up to the ideal Christian life can be overwhelming. The thought of not dedicating enough time and energy to church activities may lead to guilt and anxiety, fearing that fellow believers might question your commitment to your faith.

The anxiety about societal judgment often traces back to how you were raised. From your parents to your grandparents and their ancestors, there may have been an ingrained belief that worthiness is contingent upon meeting certain conditions. 

However, you need to learn to pick and choose.

Society's judgments may seem complicated to dismiss entirely. It is natural for the opinions of others to affect you, and convincing yourself that they are insignificant might be a gradual process. However, it is crucial to learn the art of discernment. Understand that not all criticisms hold equal weight; you can choose which words to let impact you.

In this journey, consider turning around harsh words into constructive motivation. Instead of letting negative judgments bring you down, use them as stepping stones to improve and grow. Pick and choose the feedback that can benefit you in the long run, discarding the rest. This way, the weight of societal expectations becomes a tool for self-improvement rather than a burden on your shoulders.

Remember, you are the master of your narrative, and not every critical comment needs to define your worth. By selectively embracing constructive feedback and discarding baseless judgments, you can shape a path that aligns with your aspirations and values.

Moreover, learn to distance yourself.

In life, not every situation or relationship may prove beneficial for you. Recognizing this reality is an essential step in safeguarding your well-being. Some environments and connections may carry toxicity that can weigh you down and hinder your progress. In such instances, it is crucial to prioritize your mental and emotional health.

Choosing to distance yourself from toxic situations and relationships is an act of self-preservation. Surrounding yourself with positivity can foster personal growth and provide the support needed to overcome challenges. Consider cultivating an environment that uplifts you rather than drags you down. It might involve letting go of relationships that bring negativity or avoiding situations that consistently lead to stress and discomfort.

After you take these steps to rid or calm your anxiety, only then will you find the leeway to allow yourself rest and relaxation.

Once you do, consider incorporating simple activities into your routine. Begin by setting aside dedicated time for yourself, whether a few minutes each day or a more extended period during the week. Engage in activities that bring you joy, such as reading a book, taking a stroll, or enjoying a cup of tea.

Establishing a consistent sleep routine is crucial for physical and mental rejuvenation. Aim for sufficient hours of sleep each night to ensure your body gets the rest it needs. Additionally, finding a quiet and comfortable space for relaxation can enhance your overall well-being.

Even in moderate amounts, exercise can be a great way to unwind. Physical activity can release tension and boost your mood, whether it is a short walk, gentle stretching, or a quick workout. Embrace activities that allow you to disconnect from the demands of daily life, fostering a sense of peace and tranquility.

Also, take into account the power of spending quality time with loved ones. Connecting with family and friends can provide emotional support and create moments of joy. 

Remember, finding rest and relaxation does not always require elaborate plans; simple, intentional actions can significantly impact your overall sense of well-being.

Take comfort in the knowledge that you have the power to reshape these beliefs and redefine success on your terms.

For instance, success could be measured by achieving a work-life balance that allows for quality time with family and friends, rather than solely focusing on climbing the corporate ladder. It might involve pursuing a career that brings personal fulfillment, even if it does not adhere to traditional expectations.

Rather than measuring success solely by job titles or material possessions, you might prioritize acquiring new skills, gaining knowledge, and evolving as an individual.

That being said, you do you.

Read more:

Press on: Navigating the mountain of challenges