Why You Must Check Out Before Life Checks You In

I used to believe rest was a reward, something you earned after the work was done, the goals were hit, and everyone else’s needs were met.

But life taught me otherwise. If you don’t give yourself permission to rest, life will eventually force you to.

That’s why I tell my clients and remind myself often:
“Check out before you have to check in.”

Let me explain.

Years ago, I wore my driven energy like a badge of honor. Always the leader. Always available. Always saying yes.

Until one day, my body made the decision I refused to. Hospital stays. Treatments. The ultimate forced pause.

Suddenly, I wasn’t leading meetings. I was lying in a hospital gown, facing the reality that rest was no longer optional. It was survival.

That experience didn’t just change my health. It changed my leadership. It changed my priorities.

I learned the hard way that checking out, which I define as rest, reflection, and play is not weakness. It is wisdom. It is resilience in action.

We think slowing down means falling behind. But the truth is, slowing down is how you stay in the race.

So here’s my invitation:
Rest before you’re forced to.
Play before your spirit demands it.
Check out before you have to check in.

This isn’t quitting. It’s leading yourself first.

Let’s keep walking this path together

P.S. Feeling like life has been in overdrive lately? Maybe it’s time for your own pause. If you’re ready to rethink your pace and reclaim your energy, schedule a complimentary discovery coaching session with me.