reader. writer.

I admit, I tend to be cranky about the phrase “don’t rest on your laurels,” because it invariably accompanies praise for some accomplishment. That is, instead of allowing anyone to feel good about what they have accomplished, there is this sense that effective leaders should nag people to never relax, never stop pushing, never pause to take a breath because if you slow down even a moment, you must be an abject failure.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m all for the ongoing pursuit of excellence—the joy of identifying and pursuing difficult goals. And I get that organizations must find ways to thrive that typically involve movement, not stasis. But ffs (pardon my initials) when do we get to rest on our laurels? Can’t there be any moment to say, hey, that was great, I don’t suck?

No, I think the answer is no.

At least, no matter what we accomplish, no matter in what ways we prove ourselves, we can never expect a respite. We will be prodded and challenged no matter what we are doing, whether we strive to do more or take a brief pause. So, IMHO go ahead and rest on your laurels whenever you choose, including the most modest wins. Sure, eventually start over, get back on the horse, etcetera etcetera. But sometimes, just say, hey, whatever. I’m taking a moment.