Lesson 3: Rest is equally important as working
There is virtue in work and there is virtue in rest. Use both and overlook neither.” — Alan Cohen
Considering luck always wears the clothing of work, it’s true that many people miss it. However, in their desire to meet Mr. Luck, many individuals overwork themselves until they are so exhausted, agitated, and overwhelmed that they are no more productive because they mistake resting for laziness.
While overworking is celebrated and encouraged in today’s world, taking breaks is just as vital as working hard because the culture causes unnecessary physical and mental harm. And this is one of the reasons that so many people who appear to be financially successful are actually fighting illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and stroke.
According to the World Health Organization and the International Labour Organization, working 55 or more hours per week resulted in nearly 400,000 deaths from stroke and nearly 350,000 deaths from heart disease in 2016. Between 2000 and 2016, the number of deaths from stroke and heart disease due to working long hours increased by 42% and by 19%, respectively.
I uncovered the lesson just as my body was beginning to freeze, making it difficult for me to even think and focus.
Action point 1: After having learned the lesson, I began to prioritize breaks as much as I do work, and I will continue to do so. To avoid wasting my breaks on social media and excessive phone use, I occasionally take it a step further and completely turn off my phone.
Action point 2: I have been and I will continue to find/spare at least 20 minutes every day for a walk because walking offers both the physical benefits of exercise while also enhancing emotional well-being. I have been and will continue to go for walks with my wife and/or children in order to also spend quality time with them.
