Hey sis, do less.

Rest is a necessity, a basic human need. Our bodies and minds need time to unwind and recharge in order to function at their best. When we take breaks, our internal systems get a chance to refuel, repair, and reset, setting us up for success.

Yet, slowing down and giving ourselves permission to do less can be tough. In a world that values constant busyness and productivity, taking time to rest may be perceived as laziness or unproductivity.  There's often pressure to keep pushing forward, making it easy to feel guilty or anxious when we prioritize rest over work or other responsibilities.

For many Black women, the expectation to persevere and excel in every aspect of our lives is all too familiar. Society often places immense pressure on us to navigate various roles and responsibilities while maintaining supportiveness, availability, and unwavering strength. Despite facing numerous challenges and obstacles, Black women are often expected to show up, not only for themselves but also for their families, communities, and workplaces.

The pressure to constantly push through can take its toll in various ways. For many of us, the concept of rest becomes foreign not because we don’t value it, but because we’ve been conditioned to believe that it’s something we must earn.

To everyone who is disrupting this narrative, I want to express my admiration and support. I see you, and I’m so proud of you for courageously choosing to prioritize rest, to embrace a slower pace, and to do less. Your decision is a radical act of self-care and resistance against a culture that often equates worth with productivity. Keep honoring your need for rest, and know that by doing so, you’re not only taking care of yourself but also inspiring others to do the same.

Doing less can look like:

— tending to your sleep/rest needs

— saying “no”

— me time

— being present

— taking breaks/time off

— pausing a goal or plan

— letting go

— gazing at the stars/sky

Sis, you don’t need to be overstimulated, distracted and busy all the time.

Friendly reminders:

1. It’s okay to slow down.

2. You don't need to earn rest.

3. Do less more often.