Rest Like Your Dreams Depend on It (Because They Do)

Hey, it's Jerrica, aka the Greenlight Godmotha.

The past few weeks’ news cycle has been heavy on my mind and my heart. It’s overwhelming to see what’s going on in America (and the world) while trying to go to work and even chase your dreams.

I recently took two weeks off from work, but the truth is, mentally—before and after—I was all over the place.

If you’re like me, and all of this has been sitting heavy on you, take a break. A break from work (your day job, if you can) and even from the dream—just for a little.

Because if you don’t, if you keep pushing yourself, it’ll cost you.

Burnout, frustration, or worse—you give up on the dream altogether.

Trying times like this have historically brought some of the most powerful movies, TV shows, art, and poetry into the world. And this time will be no different.

Langston Hughes survived intense oppression and racism during the Harlem Renaissance and still came out with A Dream Deferred—a poem that resonates deeply with me because it’s a reminder that we must keep going, but first, we must rest.

This poem speaks to the consequences of unfulfilled dreams and aspirations.

I recently saw this thread 👇🏽 taking over social.

And I couldn’t agree more.

But I know from going after my own dreams that this is a TALL ask in this economy and, to be honest, in this presidency—especially for everyone who is "other."

YOU KNOW EXACTLY WHAT I MEAN.

So, to that, I say: rest.

Because here’s the thing—if you don’t rest, you can’t go after your dreams.

Creativity needs space to breathe.

Your best ideas don’t come when you’re running on empty; they come when you’ve given yourself room to recharge.

Hustling nonstop won’t get you to your goal any faster if you burn out before you even get close.

I found myself doomscrolling on TikTok last night, and it sent me down a spiral of being unable to sleep and questioning if I should continue to go after my dreams.

And I realized—now more than ever—I have to do this.

For you, for myself, for the future. No matter what happens, people will always want to be entertained. Whether you’re the entertainer or someone behind the scenes, the work you’re called to do is meaningful and needed.

I wholeheartedly believe the dream you have was given to you and only you to bring to life.

But in order to go after your dreams, you have to know how important and powerful rest is. Taking a break isn’t quitting. It’s fuel.

It’s how you make sure your dream doesn’t become one of those deferred ones that Langston Hughes wrote about.

And if you find yourself doomscrolling on social, I challenge you to:

So, no matter where you are, I wanted to share some resources for mental health and creative rest:

• Headspace (Free 14 Day Trial) – Meditation and mindfulness tools designed to boost creativity and mental clarity.

• The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron – A book and creative recovery program designed to help artists overcome burnout and creative blocks.

• Petfinder Volunteer Search - A great tool to find local shelters and rescue groups that need volunteers in your city.

• Mindfulness for Creatives on Insight Timer – Free guided meditations designed specifically for creatives experiencing burnout.

• Sliding Scale Therapy in LA - Basically pay what you can therapy in Los Angeles!

• Therapy for Black Girls – A directory of culturally competent therapists, along with a free community forum.

• National Queer & Trans Therapists of Color Network – Offers a directory of therapists and sometimes financial assistance for QTBIPOC individuals.

• 7 Cups – A free peer-to-peer chat platform with trained listeners for emotional support.

• Inclusive Therapists – A database of affirming therapists, some of whom offer sliding-scale and pro bono options.

• Go outside and touch grass - A database of local parks.

• LA Fitness - They have free passes so you can get in the gym.

• Jersey Strong - Locations all over New Jersey that offer a 21 day free trial!

• Shape Up NYC - This program offers free fitness classes across the five boroughs, including yoga, Zumba, and strength training. Classes are designed for all fitness levels and are free to the public.

• Spafinder - A resource to find spas, salons, and wellness centers in your area.

Take care of yourself. And take a f*cking break.*

— Jerrica

P.S. – Let’s check in on each other. If 10 people want in, I’ll set up a zoom chat. Reply to this email with “YES” if you’re down.