The Morning Mindset: Permission to Feel, Permission to Rest

Have you ever had one of those weeks where the highs feel sky-high, the lows feel deep, and by the end of it, you’re left feeling utterly spent?

That’s been my week.

A whirlwind of emotions, challenges, and victories all rolled into one.

I’ve celebrated major wins with my clients, both the individuals I coach and the organizations I support through HR consulting. Together, we’ve made tough decisions, solved complex problems, and developed creative strategies. Networks have grown, connections have deepened, and milestones have been achieved.

And yet, today, I feel the weight of it all.

I’m officially worn out.

This kind of tired doesn’t just come from work—it’s the result of wearing all the hats at once. In addition to leading my business, I’ve been a mom to my amazing kids, a dog mom, a friend who stands in the gap, and the manager of all the non-professional responsibilities that fill my days.

It’s a lot. But you know what? That’s okay.

Dr. Brené Brown says, “We cannot selectively numb emotions; when we numb the painful emotions, we also numb the positive emotions.” So today, I’m giving myself permission to feel it all—the joy, the exhaustion, the pride, and even the frustration. This is the fullness of life and leadership, and instead of running from it, I’m choosing to honor it.

Rest is Leadership in Action

Here’s something I’ve learned: Rest isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a tool for resilience.

Leadership requires us to pour into others, but it also requires us to pour into ourselves. Rest allows us to replenish, recharge, and refocus so we can lead from a place of clarity and strength.

As Anne Lamott says, “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”

This week reminded me that even in the fullness of life, we need to make space for rest. It’s in the rest that we find the energy to keep going.

This Is the Life of a Leader

Here’s what this week taught me:

• Success often involves tough decisions, creative problem-solving, and uncomfortable conversations.
• Growth comes from celebrating the wins and navigating the challenges with equal grace.
• Joy and exhaustion can coexist.

And most importantly, leadership starts with honoring the person leading—you.

What Do You Need to Give Yourself Permission For?

As leaders, we often push ourselves to keep going, even when we know we’re running on empty. But balance isn’t about doing it all—it’s about being intentional with where you focus your energy.

So, I’ll ask you:

• Where do you need to give yourself permission?
• Permission to rest without guilt?
• Permission to celebrate your wins fully?
• Permission to say, “I need a moment”?

Today, I’m choosing to honor myself by tapering off, giving myself a moment to breathe, and doing something that brings me joy. It might not solve all the problems, but it will refill my tank so I can show up again tomorrow with intention and purpose.

This is your reminder: You’re allowed to feel tired. You’re allowed to pause. And you’re allowed to care for yourself in the same way you care for others. Leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about perseverance—and perseverance requires rest.

With grace,

Kisha Hicks

QUICK PSA: “Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” – Eleanor Brownn

Today, give yourself permission to refill your vessel. You’ve earned it. ??