I used to feel guilty for taking a nap.
Even when my body was tired and my mind was heavy, I would power through. Resting made me feel lazy, like I was wasting time I could be using to “catch up” or “stay ahead.”
But then I asked myself: Catch up to what? Stay ahead of whom?
Who created this race I keep running?
Raised to Hustle, Not to Heal
In many African homes, especially in Nigeria, hustle is culture. We wear struggle like a badge of honour. Waking early, sleeping late, and pushing through pain is how we prove we’re serious.
Softness? That’s for the privileged and the unserious. The ones who don’t know what life really is.
But here’s the thing: That mindset may help us survive… but it doesn’t help us thrive.
Survival teaches you to ignore your body’s needs. Thriving teaches you to listen.
And I’m learning that there’s a quiet rebellion in choosing to be soft in a world that expects you to be hard.
Rest is Productive, Too
Rest isn’t the opposite of productivity; it’s part of it.
You can’t pour from an empty cup. And yet, so many of us are dry, running on fumes, and convincing ourselves that “no days off” is a virtue.
But have you ever noticed how your best ideas come when you’re still? In the shower. During a walk. On your bed. Peace has always been a fertile ground for creativity.
Rest is where clarity lives.
Choosing a Softer Life Isn’t Weakness
Choosing a softer life doesn’t mean choosing a lazy life.
It means:
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Saying no to burnout culture.
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Valuing quality over speed.
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Prioritising well-being over image.
It’s giving yourself permission to enjoy the moment. To eat slowly. To talk to God without rushing. To do something just because it brings joy, not profit.
And isn’t that the point of life? Not just to exist, but to enjoy?
Final Thoughts
The world may never stop spinning. Deadlines won’t disappear. Bills won’t pay themselves. But we can choose a new rhythm. One that honours our bodies. One that includes breathing space.
You are not lazy for needing rest. You are not weak for choosing peace.
You are wise.
And wisdom? That’s the softest strength of all.