Take Care. The Power of Rest and Replenishment

As I continue reflecting on my 2025 theme—Take root, take care, bloom—I’ve been thinking a lot about what it truly means to take care.

Looking back, I haven’t always done the best job of that. I used to feel guilty taking sick days, used vacation time for passion projects, and pushed through grueling schedules—working full-time while performing eight shows a week. It wasn’t sustainable. It led to total burnout.

But in the second half of 2024, I made a change. I left my long-time job without a clear plan and embraced something new: rest. Right now, I’m doing some temp work, but I’ve also given myself permission to slow down, reflect, and heal.

It hasn’t been easy. I’ve wrestled with guilt about staying in, not making money, or not “doing enough.” But in this space, I’ve reconnected with the things that bring me joy—working out, meditating, practicing music, and, most importantly, resting.

This season of rest has been transformative. And as I look ahead, I’m committed to carrying this care forward—to making rest a priority, even when I return to the workforce.

So, here’s my encouragement to you:
Take the vacation days. Use the sick time. No one is handing out crowns for working yourself into the ground.

Give yourself permission to pause. Rest. Reflect. Take care.