The Power Move Most Women Leaders Overlook: Rest

The super power of Rest

The Hidden Power Move Most Women Leaders Overlook: Rest is often the last thing we give ourselves permission to embrace. We’ve been taught, quietly and persistently, that our value is tied to how much we produce, how well we perform, and how constantly we hustle. Slowing down has been labeled as laziness, while burnout is celebrated as proof that we’re “all in.” But hustle culture doesn’t build self-worth; it drains it. Despite good intentions, many women have been conditioned to keep pushing, even when the cost is their own well-being. Thankfully, conversations are shifting. And more of us are beginning to recognize rest as the hidden power move women in leadership can’t afford to keep overlooking.

“You do so much. You really should slow down.”

Ever had someone say that to you?
And did you smile, nod, and go straight back to doing all the things?

If you’re a woman running a business, supporting your family, caring for others, or just holding it all together, chances are, you’ve heard this more than once. And chances are, you’ve ignored it more than once too. Whats your power move?

The Wake-Up Call I Didn’t Ask For

This spring, life reminded me that I’m not invincible.

In April, my mother-in-law passed away and shortly after, my uncle died. Then, in the middle of grieving, my husband, my father-in-law, and I all came down with pneumonia.
It hit hard and took me down.

I had nothing left in the tank. All the wellness tools I usually count on, hydration, supplements, breathing, rest, suddenly felt like not enough. And that was a wake-up call I couldn’t ignore.

If You Don’t Make Time for Wellness…

We’ve all heard it:
“If you don’t make time for your wellness, you’ll be forced to make time for your illness.”

I didn’t want to prove that right. But I did. Not on purpose—just by doing what many women do. Putting everyone else first. Showing up for family. Making sure the end of my mother-in-law’s life was as comfortable as possible. And promising myself I’d take care of me later.

Sound familiar?

You’re Not Lazy—You’re Overloaded

Someone recently told me:
“Slowing down doesn’t mean you’re lazy or unproductive. It means you’re recharging so you can recommit to what brings you joy.”

That changed everything.

Slowing down isn’t a flaw in your system. It’s part of the system. Without rest, even the best intentions start to backfire. Your energy, creativity, and focus all need room to breathe.

When Self-Care Isn’t Enough

Yes, take your supplements.
Please, stay hydrated.
Yes, breathe deeply and nourish your body.

But also know this—even when you’re doing all the “right” things, stress can still catch up with you. And when it does, you didn’t fail. You’re not weak. You’re human.

This Is Your Invitation to Pause

So here’s what I want to tell you from the other side of burnout:

  • Take the bath.
  • Eat your leafy greens.
  • Step outside and smell the flowers.
  • Let yourself slow down without guilt.
  • Trust that you’ll come back stronger.

There is no gold star for pushing through pain, and no medal for depletion. What there is, is an opportunity to come home to yourself in a way that feels sustainable, kind, and true.

You Deserve to Feel Good Again

I haven’t walked a mile in your shoes, but I’ve worn a similar pair.
And if you’re ready to recalibrate your health and energy—with someone who gets it—I’m here.

Let’s take the next step together, gently and honestly.
If it feels like the right time for you book a call, and lets have an open, honest chat.

Kathleen Bulger

Kathleen Bulger graduated from the Canadian School of Holistic Nutrition in 2017 with her certification as a Holistic Nutritional Consultant, She has had the pleasure of working with hundreds of clients helping them achieve a balanced state of health taking them from exhausted to energized and engaged.