Often we think: more grind = more results.
It’s true, you can’t escape the emotional labor of hard work.
But emotional labor can be smooth, not rocky.
Because “hard work” is really about what you get done, not how much you grind.
So the elite doers will put in the hours, but they will also maximize the intention of those hours.
And to do that, one must get away.
Nap
Forest bathe
Listen to an album straight through
Turn the phone off 100%
Clean the house
Sleep deep
Meditate 25 minutes
Journal
Consume inspiring books and podcasts
Stare into space
I talk about this often.
But my point today is:
It takes discipline to be idle.
Because the Puritanical part of you will never be satisfied with how much you are working.
That part wants you to never take time in, to not “make excuses.”
But doing nothing is essential for productivity.
Is there a risk that you go too far, and end up rationalizing fewer hours of work than your potential, in the name of recharging?
Yes, that’s possible.
But it’s also possible to burn out.
So, find your sweet spot.
Pull back your bow. Be effective.
It takes hard work to work smart.
