It's only Wednesday, and this week has already felt heavy. Every day this month has demanded 100% from me when I’ve had nothing left to give. I’ve wanted to curl up under my duvet and sit in silence… but I kept pushing through. If you’ve ever felt like you’re running on empty, I see you.
The Weight of It All
Some weeks just feel heavier than others. The kind where exhaustion isn’t just physical—it’s mental, emotional, and even spiritual. You wake up already feeling drained, but life doesn’t stop. The kids still need breakfast, work deadlines still exist, emails still flood in, and responsibilities keep piling up.
But what happens when you have nothing left to give? What do you do when your energy is at 0%, yet the world expects 100% from you?
The Pressure to Perform
As moms, entrepreneurs, caregivers, and women, we often carry an invisible weight. Society teaches us to keep pushing, to power through, and to be “strong” no matter what. But that pressure can be overwhelming, making us feel like rest is a luxury we can’t afford.
I’ve had moments where I felt guilty for needing a break—where sitting in silence felt like I was slacking, where saying "I need a moment" felt like a failure. But the truth is, rest is not a reward; it’s a necessity.
How to Push Through Without Breaking Down
I won’t sit here and tell you to just “take a spa day” or “get more sleep.” Sometimes, we can’t escape our responsibilities. But here are a few things I’ve found that help when I have to keep going, even at 0%.
1. Micro-Rest Strategies
If a full break isn’t possible, find small ways to recharge:
- Take five deep breaths before responding to the next email.
- Drink a glass of water and stretch for two minutes.
- Close your eyes for 60 seconds and focus on nothing.
- Listen to calming music while you work.
Little moments of rest add up.
2. Set Small, Daily Intentions
Instead of overwhelming yourself with a long to-do list, ask: What is one thing I can do today that will make me feel accomplished?
Some days, that might be something big. Other days, it might just be getting through the day. Both are valid.
3. Let Go of Perfection
Not every day requires you to be at 100%. Some days, 30% is all you have—and that’s okay. Release the guilt of not being “on” all the time. Doing your best doesn’t mean doing everything.
4. Ask for Help
We weren’t meant to do it all alone. Whether it’s leaning on family, delegating tasks, or simply venting to a friend, asking for help is a form of self-care. Let people show up for you.
A Gentle Reminder
If today has been hard, pause. Take a deep breath. Know that you are allowed to rest. You are allowed to take up space in your own life. Even at 0%, you are worthy. Even at 0%, you are still enough.
This feeling won’t last forever. And neither will this season. But in the meantime, give yourself the grace you so easily give to others.
Final Thoughts
If this message resonated with you, share it with someone who might need to hear it too. And remember—rest is not a luxury; it’s survival.
Sending you love and strength,
Agatha | Rest Mama ❤️