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I’ve had an incredibly busy schedule since the beginning of the year. The constant demands and never-ending tasks piled up until three weeks ago when my body finally gave in. I found myself forced to slow down — postponing tasks, responding at a much slower pace, and delegating whatever I could to my team.
But just a day ago, something changed. Task by task, I began checking things off my list. My team was visibly surprised. They wondered where this renewed energy and drive had come from. And then it struck me — I was reminded of our Friday meetings.
The Role of Friday Meetings
Our Friday meetings, held almost every month-end, were meant to serve as moments of reflection and evaluation. We gathered to assess our progress, scrutinize our challenges, and strategize for the future. The goal was clear: continuous growth and development.
But often, we found ourselves staring at the clock. Meetings would start late and drag on, sometimes ending with allowances that extended far beyond the planned schedule. Despite the time invested, we would sometimes leave feeling like we hadn’t fully grasped the takeaways. The purpose of these sessions seemed diminished.
The Justification for Rest
This recent experience made me question the value of rest. Was it justifiable to step away from the grind? Absolutely. Rest is not a sign of weakness or inefficiency; it’s a vital investment in our well-being. Resting allows our minds to recharge, sparks creativity, and enhances productivity. It’s during these moments of pause that our bodies recover and our minds clear, preparing us to tackle the challenges ahead.
Balancing Rest with Continuity
However, as beneficial as rest is, it should be balanced with continuity. Rest without purpose can lead to stagnation. Likewise, relentless work without adequate breaks can result in burnout. The key is finding a sustainable rhythm — one that incorporates both rest and progress.
Perhaps our Friday meetings need a similar adjustment. Instead of viewing them as obligatory checkpoints, they can become opportunities for intentional reflection and re-energizing. Shorter, focused discussions that start and end on time could yield more impactful results. Encouraging honest conversations about workload, mental health, and effective strategies can foster both individual and collective growth.
Moving Forward
As I regain my momentum, I’m committed to approaching both work and rest with greater mindfulness. I’ve learned that sometimes, stepping back is the most powerful way to move forward. And maybe, just maybe, our Friday meetings can transform into genuine moments of growth — not only for the company but for every individual involved.
Here’s to finding that balance and sustaining both energy and excellence.
About the author
Dr. Jjuuko Derrick, is a pharmacist with a keen business acumen. Having dedicated much of his career to engaging with business owners and employees, he brings a unique blend of pharmaceutical expertise and business insight to the table. As an entrepreneur himself, he is passionately committed to leveraging his technical skills and entrepreneurial experience to foster the growth and development of multiple businesses. Driven by a mission to make a meaningful contribution to the business landscape, he stands ready to empower entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive.
