Creatives Need Rest Too
Learning to Pause Without Losing Momentum
Lately, I’ve felt it too — that quiet exhaustion that sneaks in, even when you’re doing what you love.
Maybe you’ve felt it too.
You’re pushing, creating, chasing the next big idea… but inside, you’re running on empty.
That’s when I realized: rest isn’t something we earn later — it’s something we need now.
Summer is here, and it’s the perfect season to take that vacation, start a new project outdoors, or just soak in the energy that this time of year brings.
But I’ve been learning — and maybe you have too — that even in a season full of opportunity, creatives need rest, too.
Rest Isn’t Avoidance — It’s Preparation
We spend so much time planning, executing, and pouring ourselves into our work.
But what I’ve found most powerful — and most resourceful — is remembering to pause.
Rest isn’t about avoiding the next thing; it’s about preparing for it.
During my recent move and life transition, I kept myself busy — juggling projects, checking in with collaborators, writing new content, working on fresh ideas.
But inside, I started to feel drained. I realized I wasn’t leaving space to let all my hard work take root and grow.
What I discovered is that stepping back doesn’t mean you’re falling behind.
In fact, rest gives your creativity and energy the chance to catch up — so you’re actually more prepared when the next opportunity comes.
Listening to the Inner Voice
At some point, my inner voice got quieter. That spark I usually felt for my work faded, and all I wanted to do was skate. To go to the skate park.
Something simple, something that didn’t feel like “progress.”
That desire to just enjoy the moment was my body and mind telling me: it’s time to recharge.
Maybe you’ve heard that voice too — the one nudging you to take a breath, pick up an old hobby, or just slow down.
Too often we ignore it, convinced that more hustle is the answer.
But the truth is, listening to that voice is how we reconnect with the joy of creating in the first place.
Your Challenge: Choose Rest This Summer
If you’re a creative who feels guilty for resting — or fears stepping back from your work — this is your sign.
You need rest, too.
Rest for your mind. Rest for your body. Rest for your spirit.
Rest isn’t weakness. It’s not laziness. It’s not procrastination.
It’s what refuels you, redirects you, and protects you from burnout.
So here’s my challenge to you:
Get some quality rest this summer. Step away from the grind. Take yourself out — even if just for a few hours. Pick up that hobby you set aside when life got busy.
Although summer is full of opportunities to create and experiment, don’t forget to pause long enough to feel inspired again.
When you’re out chasing your next idea, remember:
You deserve to rest too.
If you've made it this far, thank you!
I invite you to join my mailing list for exclusive updates.
If you're already a member, you’re a true rockstar for supporting my publication!
Also, check out my new website and view some of my most recent photography work.
Socials
Website: Joseph Baldwin
Instagram: @jlbaldwin_
LinkedIn: Joseph Baldwin
Let’s connect.
Yup exactly that