She Strengthens

Embracing the Art of Rest: A Journey of Self-Discovery

When I lost my job two months into the pandemic, I was shaken. But instead of diving back into the job market, I decided to take a leap of faith and focus on my personal projects. The previous few years had been marred by toxic workplaces and anxiety, and I was determined to break free from that cycle.

Reclaiming My Time

I had two major goals: completing my novel and finishing my part-time MBA. With a supportive partner, low mortgage repayments, and an emergency fund of £10,000, I took a calculated risk and invested in myself. Lockdown provided the perfect opportunity to focus on my projects without distractions.

The Productivity Trap

At first, I fell into the trap of overplanning and self-criticism. I thought I needed to be constantly busy to be productive. But I soon realized that rest is not passive, it’s active. Taking breaks and allowing myself time to recharge led to my highest ever mark on an MBA project.

Unpicking Identity

As I stepped away from my career, I discovered how deeply intertwined my self-worth and job were. It took time to understand what I truly wanted from my career and to redefine my sense of value. I learned that my worth isn’t tied to my salary or job title.

Redefining Success

It’s easy to compare ourselves to others, but I had to define success on my own terms. I stopped chasing someone else’s idea of success and started valuing what I already had. This newfound confidence helped me approach job interviews with a fresh perspective.

The Power of Downtime

My year-long break from employment taught me valuable lessons about money, independence, and resilience. Living off my emergency fund changed my relationship with money, making me more mindful and appreciative of every purchase.

A New Chapter

Today, my manuscript is being considered by editors, and I’m set to graduate with my MBA in January 2023. I’m rebuilding my emergency fund, grateful for the journey that has led me to this point. Using up my emergency fund was a risk, but it paid off in ways I never could have imagined.