Today is Labor Day, and both my husband and daughter are working. It seems weird being the only one with the day off.

I did sleep in, but once breakfast and my devotional time was over, I did have to send out an invoice. But afterwards I decided not to do any work today. I just didn’t realize how difficult that would be.

First, I had to check my work email. I started to respond to one, then remembered, “Oh yes, it’s Labor Day. I’m not working today. This can wait until tomorrow.” Yet I found it incredibly difficult not to hit “reply” and type up my response.

Next, I checked the email I use for job applications. There weren’t any openings that interested me, so I was able to restrain myself from checking the various job boards.

Usually, I would be online all morning, answering emails, grading homework, and planning for my next class session. But yesterday I woke up with a scratchy throat and decided I’d better take advantage of the time off to rest, rejuvenate and restore my health.

So, what did I do after church yesterday? I went to two groceries to pick up a rotisserie chicken and some lemons. I did get a quick nap after, but still cooked supper.

Why is it so hard for us to stop working? We are not our jobs. We are so much more than that. We deserve time off to recharge without feeling guilty.

So, if you’re, like me, feeling like you can’t take any time off, do it anyway. You have my permission! 🙂 Try hard not to do anything you “have” to do — no work-related emails, calls, or typing. See how you feel afterwards.

Let me know how it went for you in the comments section below. I’ll be here, forcing myself not to work, and cheering you on!