As life seeps out of my phone, I switch it to low power mode, conserving the minimal energy it has left. In this mode, it doesn’t operate at the same effectiveness. It’s unable to seamlessly be the device it’s meant to be. It will stay this way until I give it the time it needs to recharge.
Our tiny little phones demand we provide a period needed to recharge or it will decide to completely shut off. It requires the time to receive enough energy back so that it no longer needs to live in low power mode, and can go back to operating at its usual capacity.
And just like our little phones, we need it too.
recharge // (of a person) return to a normal state of mind or strength after a period of mental or physical exertion
As we constantly push our bodies in a seemingly endless cycle and the rat race pushes on, there will come a time when the only two options will present themselves: to recharge or burnout. To everyone, the burnout will happen. It leaves no one behind, not taking into consideration how bright eyed you were when you started out. So instead of burning out, allow yourself to do what you need to recharge. Think about yourself. Think about what you need for your well-being.
Moving towards our goals is incredibly empowering and can bring direction and focus to our lives. But as you drive forward, don’t lose sight of what brings meaning to your life. What makes you who you are. As important as continuing to reach towards new career heights is, as essential, is the opposite.
For me, recharging is travelling, learning, and experiencing the world. Being outside and at camp. Reading and writing. Kickboxing, running, spinning, and working out. Fostering meaningful relationships, challenging ideas, and having changing conversations.
I don’t know what it is for you, but I can almost guarantee it won’t be your 9-5, no lunch, sedentary life.
Right in this moment, ask yourself whether you are recharging or burning out, and then decide whether it’s the state you want to be in.
“One of the problems of our culture is that while there are always plenty of signposts along our path directing us to climb up the ladder and be always on, there are almost no signposts reminding us to stay connected to the essence of who we are, to take care of ourselves along the way, to reach out to others, to pause to wonder, and to connect to that place from which everything is possible.” – Anthony Bourdain
Sara
