Do I need to take a break or am I being lazy? I probably ask myself that question at least once a day!

Sometimes it’s hard in the moment to take note and realize if you are mentally or physically exhausted or whether your mind is just giving up because your attention span has maxed out and you can’t be bothered.

This is a very crucial moment!

Push yourself too far and you can end up burnt out and setting yourself back further than if you just took a break.

Alternatively, you might be feeling unmotivated, bored, or preoccupied and simply need to push through it to come out the other side.

Needing a Break VS Being Lazy

If you need a break you’re most likely either physically, emotionally, or mentally exhausted or, all three!

If you are being lazy you’re most likely bored, lacking motivation, or don’t believe in yourself enough to believe what you are doing is worth it.

7 Signs You Need To Take A Break

• Feeling Exhausted

• Brain Fog

• Forgetfulness

• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much

• Changes in appetite

• Loss of motivation

• Low immune system i.e. getting colds, coughs, and generally feeling unwell.

When To Take A Break

If you are experiencing any of the above, taking a break may be a very good idea.

When we take care of ourselves and make time for our own enjoyment we not only heal our bodies but we boost our energy, motivation, and desire to continue to be productive and live our best life.

For more support and advice on feeling Overwhelmed click here.

When To Push Through

When it comes to getting stuff done so to speak, getting that qualification, running a marathon, renovating a new home, etc. This is the moment that distinguishes the ones who succeed from the ones who don’t.

It is very normal to get to that point when the task, the training or whatever it is you are doing, is no longer fun, the drive slows down, the motivation fades and your mind and body become tired of whatever it is you are doing.

It's like at dinner when you were a kid, you’d eat half your dinner and say you were full yet beg for dessert. Your mum would say, “Well if you’re too full to finish your dinner you can’t possibly have room for dessert”
But you did have room! It wasn’t that you were too full up but more that you had had enough of that particular food. You wanted a change.

The key point is to keep your mind focused by giving it a set time when it’s allowed to wander and then refocus.

As we journey through life's demands, it's vital to listen to our bodies and minds, acknowledging when they need rest.

Taking breaks isn't a sign of weakness but a wise investment in our long-term effectiveness.

On the other hand, perseverance in the face of challenges can lead to growth and triumph.

It's essential to differentiate between moments where persistence is key and situations where stepping back is the wisest choice.

The key lies in self-awareness, mindfulness, and compassion towards ourselves. By cultivating these qualities, we can navigate the fine line between forging ahead and recharging our spirits.

Remember, it's in the delicate dance between rest and perseverance that we can truly thrive.

So, whether you choose to take a moment to breathe or continue forging your path, trust in your intuition, honor your limits, and remember that self-care is the greatest gift you can give yourself on this journey towards your goals.

For more guidance and advice on productivity click here.