Lessons from Overworking: Balancing Dedication and Rest

The experience that taught me a vital lesson about working too hard took place during a stage play performance of the ballet adaptation of the musical The Sound of Music in Danish. In a particular scene, I was cast as a performer aiding the lead actress with a stage stunt, where I was to momentarily enter the scene and become part of her choreography. While the stunt was generally a smooth operation, on this specific day, I had participated in voluntary work the day prior at a Soviet missile submarine museum dedicated to the Juliet U 461 submarine. My fatigue from this voluntary work led to my performance being slightly subpar. However, the actress's improvisational skills saved the scene, and the audience was none the wiser.

The Consequences of Overworking

The reason behind my fatigue was voluntary work at the Juliet U 461 submarine museum. This experience taught me a significant lesson: never to double up on work, regardless of whether it's voluntary or not, especially when I need to prioritize my sleep. This incident highlighted the importance of recognizing the limits of one's body and mind to avoid exhaustion.

There are no absolute answers regarding the concept of working too hard. It is often subjective, based on individual circumstances and goals. It is said that only fools work too hard, and genius works smart to gain maximum results. While hard work is commendable, it must be balanced with strategic thinking and rest. Overworking can lead to burnout, health issues, and loss of personal and professional goals. Ethical hard work may not always result in ethically earned money, and various entities, including taxes, regulations, and legal disputes, can strip away any earnings.

Learning to Work Smart

My journey to understanding the importance of not working too hard began in my university days when I was the reigning guitarist. I relished the attention and opportunities that came with being the best guitarist on campus, but I often neglected to prioritize my health and education. I was driven to take on every gig and rehearsal I could, embracing a life that was both exhilarating and exhausting. This dedication eventually led to a life-altering event.

One day, after a long night of traveling and playing music gigs, we were involved in a car accident. Sadly, everyone else was killed, but I survived. The physical and emotional scars were profound, and they taught me to embrace the value of self-care and personal well-being. This incident also highlighted the interconnectedness of work and health, reiterating the principle that "health is wealth."

Despite the trauma, I didn't give up. However, the strain of my overwork caught up with me during my final exams. I contracted Tuberculosis while writing my exam papers, forcing me to retake those papers. This forced me to reflect on the lessons I had learned. I realized that it was crucial to balance my dedication to music with the need to prioritize my health and education.

Embracing a More Balanced Approach

Now, with a more balanced perspective, I understand the importance of not working too hard. I've learned that it's okay to turn down offers or invitations that don't align with my priorities. I prioritize health over fleeting successes and understand that work should be a symbiosis of dedication and rest. I still enjoy music but now approach it with a more mindful and balanced attitude.

In summary, the experience of overworking taught me a valuable lesson in the importance of balancing dedication and rest. I've learned to work smart rather than just hard, recognizing that health and well-being are the most valuable assets in the long run.