Why Rest is Essential for High Performance

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Shore Consulting, and as a celebration of this milestone, I’ve decided to take 90 days off. It’s a chance to step back, recharge, and return more energized than ever. My wife, Karen, and I will spend some time traveling, including three weeks in France—a place we love dearly. Beyond that, the plan is simple: read, relax, play some hockey, maybe golf a little, and most importantly, quiet my mind.

Why Take a Sabbatical?

After years of non-stop work, I realized that stepping back isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. My main goal during this sabbatical is to cultivate a quiet mind. I’ve spent a great deal of time studying the importance of stillness, solitude, and even boredom, and I believe these elements are crucial for anyone who wants to come back stronger, more focused, and ready to contribute at their highest level.

The truth is, our minds need rest. It’s not just about unplugging from work but also disengaging from the constant noise of everyday life. For me, this means no phone calls, no emails, no social media, and no work-related conversations—even with Karen. It’s all about stepping aside and resetting.

The Prepared Mind Needs Rest

We often think of rest as a reward or a luxury after hard work, but in reality, rest is the foundation of great work. Cal Newport’s book, Digital Minimalism, is one of my go-to reads, and I’ll definitely be revisiting it during my time off. Another book on my list is The Power of Full Engagement by Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz—a must-read every few years to remind myself of the importance of managing energy, not just time.

The principle here is simple: if you want to perform at your best, you need to rest. This isn’t just about getting enough sleep but truly allowing your mind to quiet down. Disconnecting from the hustle gives you the mental space to think creatively, solve problems, and, most importantly, avoid burnout.

No Time for a Sabbatical?

Now, I understand that not everyone can afford to take a 90-day break from work. Maybe your responsibilities don’t allow for an extended absence, and that’s perfectly fine. The good news is you don’t need months off to experience the benefits of rest.

How about a 90-minute break? Or even just 90 seconds to step away from your phone, computer, and the constant stream of notifications? I challenge you to make time for these micro-breaks throughout your day.

Your creative brain—the part of you that does your best work—needs rest, even in small doses. It’s during these moments of stillness that new ideas surface, solutions to problems become clear, and you reconnect with the work that truly matters.

Practical Tips for Taking a Mental Break

1. Schedule Your Breaks: Put short breaks on your calendar just like any other meeting. It could be as simple as stepping outside for a walk, sitting quietly without your phone, or reading a book for enjoyment.
2. Limit Digital Distractions: Consider adopting a “digital minimalism” approach. This doesn’t mean abandoning technology altogether but being intentional about when and how you use it. Set boundaries—no checking emails after a certain hour, for example.
3. Engage in Restorative Activities: Find activities that truly recharge you. For me, it’s hockey and reading. For you, it might be gardening, cooking, or simply sitting quietly with your thoughts.
4. Practice Solitude: Spend time alone without distractions. This can be uncomfortable at first, especially in our hyper-connected world, but it’s incredibly beneficial. Solitude allows your mind to wander, process, and refresh.
5. Be Present: Whether you’re taking a full sabbatical or just stepping away for a few minutes, commit to being fully present. Put away your phone, turn off notifications, and focus on the moment.

The Importance of Support

One of the reasons I can take this sabbatical with peace of mind is because I have an incredible team at Shore Consulting. Surrounding yourself with supportive colleagues and having systems in place can make all the difference. Even if you’re stepping away for just a short time, knowing that your work is in capable hands allows you to truly disconnect and recharge.

Final Thoughts: Invest in Rest

Rest isn’t just a break from work—it’s an investment in your future performance. Whether it’s 90 days, 90 minutes, or 90 seconds, taking time to quiet your mind is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your career. You’ll come back with fresh ideas, renewed energy, and a deeper sense of purpose in your work.

So, I encourage you to carve out time for rest in whatever way is possible for you. Read Cal Newport’s Deep Work, especially the chapter on solitude. Trust me, it will be time well spent.

As I head off on my own journey of rest and reflection, I wish you the very best in finding your moments of stillness. I’ll see you on the other side, ready to contribute more than ever.