When was the last time you got a full time to rest? To laugh at memes, jokes, or with loved ones?

Do you give yourself time to do it after work, since joy on the clock is allowed within time and content limits?

Was it drilled into you by family and peers that “hustle culture” is the only thing that matters?

To the last question, it doesn’t.

Some of us are having a time finding something that’s steady enough to maintain vital payments, yet gives you the time to breathe and enjoy yourself. Some even fear taking that major job will sacrifice that important artistic time they cherish, whether they create it or are entertained by it.

I’ve had to remind myself that I’d still be an artist once that time came throughout multiple seasons, including this one. While I’m not without, I’m grateful for the time I’ve had to process what’s been in my heart, but rarely had the time or courage to express in a public or private space.

We all need our time to recover from a period of burying the rougher emotions. It deserves more open conversations about how that can effect our overall health, and how it can create and enhance levels of anxiety and depression.

The time is also needed to reconnect with people that mean the most to us, whether it’s a video shared linked to their interests, or if it’s a minimal “hello, I hope all is well.” Memes and videos connected to inside jokes are a huge plus. All of that goes a long way to people who feel they’re a burden or a bother, despite any reminders of the opposite.

There’s more to life than work, sleep, cry, repeat. The little bits to brighten your mood, and even life, can empower you while being contagious around the right people.

I don’t mean to come off like working a job isn’t important. It is. But taking the time to appreciate life’s genuine comforts deserves the same attention.

Make sure that’s the case with you, as well.