As someone who’s worn more hats than I can count—a former football player, entrepreneur, podcast host, and, let’s not forget, the Easter Bunny at the mall—I’ve learned that the secret to thriving isn’t grinding harder. It’s learning how to rest. And no, I’m not talking about laziness. Rest is a game-changer for productivity and mental clarity, and it’s something I’ve had to master through some serious trial and error.
I’ve developed a simple acronym to remind myself (and others) how to truly rest: R.E.S.T. Here’s how it works:
R — Recharge Your Body and Mind
Rest isn’t just about sleep, though getting a solid 7-9 hours is crucial. It’s also about stepping away from the chaos and letting your mind breathe. For me, that means putting down my phone, taking a walk, or just sitting in silence for 10 minutes. These small pauses keep my energy levels high and my creativity sharp.
E — Evaluate Your Priorities
When you’re constantly busy, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Rest gives you the mental space to reflect on your goals. Every Sunday, I carve out time to plan my week, aligning my tasks with my long-term vision. Without rest, you’re just running in circles—busy but not productive.
S — Simplify Your Schedule
We live in a culture that glorifies being busy, but doing more doesn’t always mean achieving more. I’ve learned to set boundaries and say no to things that don’t serve my purpose. By simplifying my schedule, I’ve found more time to focus on what truly matters—like being present with my family and connecting with my community.
T — Trust the Process
As someone who’s faced kidney failure, eviction, and other tough breaks, I know the importance of trusting the journey. Resting doesn’t mean you’re slacking off; it means you’re allowing your mind and body to recover so you can come back stronger. Trust me, clarity comes when you give yourself permission to pause.
In my experience, rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. It’s the fuel that keeps me going as a father, a husband, and a leader in my community. So, if you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, take a moment to R.E.S.T. You’ll be amazed at how much more you can accomplish when you give yourself the grace to recharge.
