Start with Small Steps 256 - Why Rest is Productive
Nov 18, 2025
Explore the powerful role of rest as a crucial ally in productivity rather than a setback. Discover seven distinct types of rest that rejuvenate various aspects of life, from physical and emotional to creative and spiritual. Learn about the 90-minute work cycles backed by neuroscience and how simple breaks can enhance clarity and creativity. Delve into spiritual traditions of rest and practical tips like digital Sabbaths and short resets. Ultimately, understand that intentional rest reconnects you with joy and purpose, proving it's essential for a balanced life.
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Diminishing Returns Of Constant Motion
- Constant motion leads to diminishing returns and harms creativity and accuracy after excessive hours.
- Neuroscience shows productivity drops around 50+ hours and ultradian ~90-minute cycles guide better work-rest rhythm.
From 100-Hour Grind To Rediscovering Hobbies
- Jill recounts moving from a 100-hour culture to a startup that enforced shorter workweeks and forced her to rediscover hobbies.
- It took six months before she remembered how to enjoy life outside work.
Work With Your 90-Minute Rhythm
- Humans run on ultradian rhythms with ~90-minute focus cycles followed by natural fatigue.
- Ignoring this pattern invites burnout, brain fog, and reduced creativity.
