Embracing the Basic Rest Activity Cycle
Whether I was managing the schedules of CEOs and entrepreneurs or my own burnout recovery, energy management has been at the core of the "how.”
Like many millennials who spent over a decade in the corporate world, the pursuit of productivity often becomes a relentless race against time. We find ourselves caught up in a never-ending cycle of work, pushing ourselves to the limits, and neglecting the crucial aspects of our well-being. Add neurodivergence to the equation and burnout makes complete sense.
You may be in a similar place realizing - "I just can't live like this anymore."
And it's true, we can't. Eventually, our bodies will decide for us if we don't stop the cycle first. The process of recovering from burnout and preventing it can feel overwhelming at the best of times, so I want to talk about the easiest place to start building your awareness when getting started with energy management:
Enter the Basic Rest Activity Cycle.
A transformative approach that challenges the traditional notions of productivity to bring more harmony in your life and work. Instead of driving ourselves to the point of burnout, this starting point helps us recognize the inherent rhythms (hello ultradian rhythm!) of our energy, focusing on intentional breaks, purposeful rest, and meaningful activities tailored to our unique needs and desires.
What is the Basic Rest Activity Cycle?
Originally proposed by Nathaniel Kleitman in the 1960s and hypothesized to occur during both sleep and waking hours. The biological rhythm of waxing and waning alertness with a period of approximately 80-120 minutes in humans. During sleep, it controls the cycles of REM and slow-wave sleep.
Why use the Basic Rest Activity Cycle?
At the core of this approach is the belief that by understanding and harnessing our individual capacity, we can navigate the ebb and flow of life, cultivating long-term impact and sustainable well-being. Let's delve deeper into the Basic Rest Activity Cycle (or BRAC) and explore how it can revolutionize the way you work and live.
Energy Management
A key aspect of the Basic Rest Activity Cycle is energy management. We know rest is important but we've been taught to subconsciously believe that if we "just work hard enough" we can achieve consistent peak performance. But with BRAC and energy management, we can acknowledge that our energy levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day. By becoming attuned to and aware of our personal energy patterns, we can identify and honor our optimal times of focus and rest. Embracing these peaks and respecting the valleys allows us to work in alignment with our natural rhythm, helping to reduce unnecessary stress and making the hustle habit.
Tailored Routines
Another essential element of the Basic Rest Activity Cycle is the crafting of tailored routines. One-size-fits-all solutions often fall short, especially if you identify as neurodivergent or disabled, this approach encourages you to design routines that align with your specific needs and energy levels. By considering factors such as energy cycles, personal capacity, and individual goals, we can create a framework that supports our well-being while still accomplishing what I like to call the "have tos" under late-stage capitalism. When we have personalized routines, they provide the structure and flexibility needed to thrive in our unique circumstances. Don't be afraid to have multiple tailored routines to meet your needs. Personally, I have 3 for my varying energy levels through my cycle and thanks to my autoimmune illness.
Challenge Outdated Expectations
The Basic Rest Activity Cycle challenges how society thinks we should work and balance our lives. Instead of feeling pressured to always be busy and meet impossible standards, this approach empowers us to find our own way. It encourages us to question what we're told and try different ways of working that prioritize our health, creativity, and happiness. By adopting this mindset, we can break free from societal expectations and create a more genuine and sustainable approach to being productive.
In a world where productivity often feels like we must work ourselves to exhaustion, the Basic Rest Activity Cycle offers a different view. It reminds us that being truly productive doesn't mean non-stop hustle. Instead, it's about understanding our own limits and working accordingly. By taking intentional breaks, resting with purpose, and engaging in activities that suit us, we can achieve more harmony in life that allows us to make a meaningful impact.
