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010 The Guilt of Rest: Why It Feels Impossible for Women in Law to Take a Break (Even When You Know You Need It)
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Why do so many high-achieving women in law feel guilty the moment they try to rest? In this episode, we unpack the deep conditioning behind rest guilt—and how to start breaking free from it.
Rest isn’t just about what you do—it’s about how safe your body feels when you slow down. And for many lawyers, rest doesn’t feel safe at all.
We’ll explore:
- Why rest triggers guilt—even when you're exhausted
- How the legal system and patriarchal culture link your worth to your productivity
- The nervous system science behind “off time” that doesn’t actually restore you
- 4 powerful reframes to help you shift your relationship with rest
- Real client stories that prove change is possible, even in high-pressure environments
Whether you’re constantly checking Slack, canceling joyful plans, or telling yourself you’ll rest “once everything’s done,” this episode will help you name the internalized pressure—and start to soften it.
You’ll learn how to:
- Name the guilt without believing it
- Redefine rest as a professional responsibility
- Gather proof that rest is safe
- Separate rest from the belief that it must be earned
Because here’s the truth: You don’t have to earn rest. You get to rest because you’re human—not because you crossed off every item on your to-do list.
Want more support?
🔹 Try the Free Burnout Recovery AI Assistant: Pinpoint which phase of burnout you’re in—and get a personalized next step to start feeling better (without blowing up your life). www.heathermillscoaching.com/AIAssistant
🔹 Book a free 20-minute call: Talk through your burnout challenges and get support on what to do next. https://www.heathermillscoaching.com
🔹 Follow me on Instagram and LinkedIn: Get weekly tips, mindset shifts, and behind-the-scenes support for your burnout recovery.
Full Show Notes, Episode Transcript, Plus More Resources for Women in Law:
🔹 Episode 010 The Guilt of Rest: Why It Feels Impossible for Women in Law to Take a Break (Even When You Know You Need It)
https://www.heathermillscoaching.com/blog/010-the-guilt-of-rest-why-it-feels-impossible-for-women-in-law-to-take-a-break
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