The Hidden Power of Rest: Alex Soojung-Kim Pang on Finding Balance
A life in which you do good work, in which you do work that sort of has meaning for you, in which you have good relationships, that these things will naturally give you the resources that you need when you have to confront life's biggest challenges.
Ever feel like you're drowning in work and barely keeping your head above water? You're not alone. In this episode of 'How to Be Sad with Helen Russell', Alex Soojung-Kim Pang, a former Silicon Valley tech consultant and author, dives into why rest is crucial for both productivity and happiness. Alex has spent years studying the impact of overwork and has come to some eye-opening conclusions: we're working more than ever, but it's making us miserable.
He argues that taking time to rest isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity. His latest book, 'Shorter', makes a compelling case for a four-day workweek, suggesting that we can actually achieve more by doing less. Sounds counterintuitive, right? But Alex backs it up with solid research and real-world examples. He chats with Helen about the cult of busyness, the myth of the 10,000 hours rule popularized by Malcolm Gladwell, and the relentless pressure to be happy at work.
They also discuss how setting boundaries can improve your mental health and why sometimes, taking a step back is the best way to move forward. And if you’re a dog lover or a bookworm, you’ll appreciate his insights on how pets and reading can be surprisingly effective stress-busters. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed by their workload or looking to find a better balance between work and life.