If you know me, you know that stress and I are basically besties. Not exactly a flex, but it’s that clingy friend who just won’t take a hint. I’ve tried everything to shake it because trust me, stress does nothing good.
No need to hit reply with “let go and let God” or “just think positive” or “you’re too blessed to be stressed.” Trust me, I coach clients through their own stress for a living – I know. But my stress? It’s my dragon to slay. And while I’ve gotten better at wielding the sword, stress still RSVPs to my life events.
Lately though… This unwelcome guest has been extra. Daily headaches? Check. But the real kicker? One night before dinner, my jaw locked up. Every bite was a painful chore.
Turns out I wasn’t dying (whew) … but I was over-stressed.
TMJ decided to make a dramatic entrance, and apparently, it thrives when stress is in the driver’s seat.
Seriously, stress? This is a low blow, even for you.
So now, managing my stress isn’t just a “should do”; it’s mission-critical. And I know I’m not alone. Maybe TMJ isn’t your stress signal (and I really hope it’s not), but I bet you’ve had those moments where your body waves a big red flag like: “HEY! THIS IS BAD!”
The Rising Tide of Stress & Burnout
Our world is a pressure cooker.
🔥 77% of workers report work-related stress, leading to emotional exhaustion, lower motivation, withdrawal, irritability, and even a desire to quit. (American Psychological Association, 2023)
🔥 Productivity pressure has skyrocketed thanks to tech advancements, fueling a toxic “always on” mindset. But we’ll save that rant for another day.
So, how do we break the cycle?
The Game Changer: Intentional Rest
Not the kind where a canceled meeting becomes your “break” (we’ve all been there), but the kind where you actively carve out time for your brain to recharge.
💡 Studies show that unstructured, quality time with loved ones fosters authentic relationships, reduces stress, and improves mental health. (Self Magazine, 2024)
💡 Here’s the kicker—mental downtime boosts creativity and problem-solving because your brain makes powerful subconscious connections while at rest. (Scientific American)
Keep reading for some easy ways to
build quality rest into your schedule!
Why We Should Rest Instead of Stress
(Spoiler alert: It actually makes you better at everything.)
Intentional rest isn’t just about avoiding burnout; it’s about fueling what matters.
✅ Creativity thrives in rest. Ever had your best idea in the shower? When you give your mind space, it has room to think differently.
✅ Productivity improves with breaks. Working longer doesn’t mean working smarter. Aligning work with natural brain cycles prevents exhaustion.
✅ Your health depends on it. Chronic stress isn’t just annoying – it can wreck your immune system, heart health, and apparently, my ability to chew dinner this past week.
I know, I know…easier said than done. But do you know what else is really hard? EATING WITH ACUTE TMJ.
So… the choice is ours for the taking, I guess.
My Commitment to Rest
I’m sharing this because I need accountability. Stress may be a lifelong companion, but it’s no longer driving the bus. I’m committed to intentional rest—not just for recovery but for my creativity, productivity, and quality of life.
I challenge you to join me. Schedule real, guilt-free downtime. Maybe it’s:
☕ Coffee with a friend
🌅 A morning on the porch watching God work his magic in painting another sunrise
A 20-minute walk (WITHOUT checking your phone)
🥗 Dinner with someone who doesn’t stress you out
Look, I get it – embracing slow living might not be realistic in this season. But carving out time to slow down and recharge?
Non-negotiable.
Let’s conquer stress, one intentional rest at a time.
Leadership & Strategy Coach (Helping high-achievers break free from burnout, reclaim their energy, and lead with clarity & purpose!)
P.S. Ready to swap stress for sustainable success? Join below to be the first to
know when my Leadership Level-Up Journal launches. 🚀✨