Is it okay to just sit around?

Why It’s Okay to Take a Day Off: A Stoic Perspective on Rest

Ever feel like you just need a day to sit around, read, and do nothing? Maybe you’ve had a hectic week, or perhaps your mind’s been running on overdrive, and you’re craving some downtime. If you’re like many people, you might even feel a little guilty about it, thinking you should always be “on” and productive. But here’s the thing: taking a day to relax is not only okay, it’s actually a wise move—especially if you take a page out of the Stoic playbook.


What the Stoics Say About Rest

Now, the Stoics—those ancient philosophers like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius—were all about living a life of virtue, discipline, and purpose. They weren’t big on laziness or wasting time. But they also knew something crucial: if you don’t take time to rest, you’ll burn out. And when you’re burned out, you’re not much good to yourself or anyone else.

Seneca, for example, pointed out that overworking yourself isn’t noble; it’s counterproductive. If you’re constantly running on empty, your ability to think clearly and act virtuously goes right out the window. So, the Stoics would actually encourage you to rest—just as long as you’re doing it with intention.

The Value of a Day to Yourself

So, let’s say you decide to take a day off. Maybe you want to curl up with a good book, or just sit back and let your mind wander. Is this a waste of time? Not at all. In fact, the Stoics would argue that this kind of day is essential.

For one, reading is something the Stoics valued highly. It’s a way to feed your mind, explore new ideas, and maybe even find some wisdom that you can apply to your life. And if you’re reading something thought-provoking, you’re doing exactly what the Stoics did: seeking knowledge and growing as a person.

But what if you don’t feel like reading? What if you just want to sit quietly and not do much of anything? That’s okay too. Marcus Aurelius, one of the great Stoic emperors, often spoke about the importance of taking time to retreat within yourself. Those quiet moments of reflection are a chance to check in with yourself, think about your life, and prepare mentally for whatever comes next.

Rest with Intention

Here’s the takeaway: Rest is a good thing when it’s done with intention. It’s not about avoiding your responsibilities or being lazy. It’s about recognizing that you need time to recharge so that you can be your best self when you get back to your daily routine.

So, if you feel like you need a day to relax, don’t beat yourself up about it. Instead, think of it as a smart, Stoic choice. You’re taking care of yourself now so that you can show up better tomorrow. And in the grand scheme of things, that’s a pretty virtuous move.

Take Action: Embrace the Stoic Approach to Rest

Next time you’re feeling drained, give yourself permission to take a break. Whether it’s reading a good book, spending time in quiet reflection, or just letting yourself unwind, remember that this time is not wasted—it’s an investment in your well-being.

For more insights into Stoic living, self-care, and practical philosophy, subscribe to The Stoic’s Journal. Stay connected as we explore how ancient wisdom can help you lead a balanced, meaningful life today.


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