When the tank is empty

When you’re really tired, do you:

a) Keep pushing yourself (“work needs to get done!”)

b) Take a quick break, then return to work

c) Stop working for as long as you need to until you’re truly rested

On the one hand, I like approaching my work as a professional. Professionals do their work even when they don’t feel like it. On the other hand, I know from experience that I produce better work when I allow myself plenty of rest. So, if I value quality over quantity, I should take that rest.

I believe that option c is the best for my (and your) long-term health and happiness. The challenge is to accept that in the moment.

Do you ever tell yourself, “Hey, you’ve been productive enough for now—you deserve a break”?