Dealing with the Guilt of Rest with Erika Biddix

We all need a reminder now and then that it's more than okay to take a break — Actually, rest is a weapon against your life collapsing around you. Especially as leaders. Giving yourself permission to rest actually increases your productivity and of course increases your joy at work! This week, I talked with Erika Biddix, Entrepreneur Strategist and CEO of Aught. We discussed how we’ve had to work to rewrite our definition of productivity. We swapped stories about finding and embracing rest in a productivity-driven culture and the value of letting go. Erika shared how she has been moving and achieving and helping others since she was a teenager. And now, she’s taking midday naps if she needs it. Something she would have NEVER done 10 years ago in her burnt out, hustle state. (As the granddaughter of an Italian immigrant, I think we could all benefit from the siesta lifestyle!) Things like gardening, doing a puzzle, or calling a friend can still help you move the needle at work, I promise. Sometimes, taking a break will let you draft an email once versus four times because your brain is clearer. Whether you're a go-getter struggling to take a breather or simply looking to find balance in your hectic life, this conversation is packed with insights and tips. The goal is for us all to experience joy and peace at work (and the rest of your life too!). And rest is required. Here’s what we talked about: 02:09 Tips for overcoming guilt around needing rest 06:12 How to handle the guilt of asking for help as a leader 09:20 Ways to reframe rest as productive for the mind and body 12:13 How to manage the anxiety when not being productive 18:01 Tips for making rest a regular habit 24:44 The importance of leaders modeling rest and how to communicate it Links: https://jennwhitmer.com/spark-call https://weareaught.com/