Rest: A Leadership Essential

This summer, I made a bold leadership decision: I focused on rest.

After a fulfilling but incredibly demanding spring, I found myself completely depleted. As an educational leader, the end of the school year is always packed with exciting (and exhausting) activities. But this year brought an added layer; I published my very first children’s book, Purposefully Made.

Publishing a book was a dream come true, but it came at a cost. It was like taking on a second full-time job. By day, I poured my energy into leading my school. By night, I became an author on a mission. I’m a highly creative, goal-driven person, and while I was passionate about both roles, the outcome was undeniable: I was exhausted in every sense of the word.

So, this summer, I gave myself permission to do something radical: truly rest.

One resource that transformed my understanding of rest was the book Sacred Rest by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith. It completely reframed how I think about recovery and renewal. She outlines seven types of rest every person needs to feel whole:

1. Physical rest

2. Mental rest

3. Emotional rest

4. Spiritual rest

5. Social rest

6. Sensory rest

7. Creative rest

As I read, I realized I wasn’t just tired'; I was depleted across multiple areas. That insight gave me the clarity I needed to start replenishing myself intentionally. The result? I feel more whole and rejuvenated than I have in years.

Now, I’m recharged and ready to step into what’s next with fresh vision and purpose!

• A second children’s book is in the works.

• I’m developing a book to help adults nurture leadership in children.

• I’m excited to launch another school year with renewed energy.

Thank you, Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, for writing such a powerful and practical guide to rest. Your work has made a real impact on my life.

Reflection: Is It Time for You to Rest?

What if rest isn't the reward for productivity, but the fuel for it?

Here are a few questions to consider:

• Which of the 7 types of rest are you most in need of right now?

• What’s one small step you could take this week to begin replenishing that area?

• Could prioritizing rest actually make you more effective, creative, and focused?

• What might change in your life or leadership if you gave yourself permission to pause?

If you're feeling worn out, stuck in survival mode, or unsure how to truly recharge then Sacred Rest is the book you didn’t know you needed.