#atom

Strategic framework for restorative rest that prevents depletion burnout

Core Idea: The CALM approach identifies four essential qualities for truly restorative rest activities: feeling Competent, Autonomous, Liberated, and Mellow, which together create rejuvenating experiences rather than merely passive downtime.

Key Elements

• CALM framework components:

  • Competent: Activities where you feel skilled or capable
  • Autonomous: Having choice and control over the activity
  • Liberated: Free from external pressures or expectations
  • Mellow: Creating a state of calm relaxation

• Implementation strategies:

  1. Nature engagement: Even minimal exposure to natural environments

     • Short walks in green spaces
     • Indoor plants or nature sounds
     • Natural light exposure

  2. Strategic non-action: Deliberate periods of doing nothing

     • Embracing idle time without guilt
     • Reducing input/stimulation temporarily
     • Creating space for mental processing

  3. Personalized CALM activities: Finding individual rest experiences with all four qualities

     • Can be active (creative hobbies, gentle movement)
     • Can be social or solitary
     • Should feel rejuvenating rather than depleting

• Connection to productivity:

  • Quality rest directly impacts cognitive performance
  • "By doing less today, you'll feel better tomorrow"
  • Prevents depletion burnout that undermines long-term output
  • Creates sustainable energy management cycle

Connections

• Related Concepts: Depletion Burnout (CALM approach prevents this), Feel-Good Productivity (rest is fundamental component)
• Broader Context: Energy Management (alternative to traditional time management)
• Applications: Three Alignment Quests (can incorporate CALM activities), Alignment Experiments (can test different rest approaches)

References

1. Abdaal, A. (2023). Feel Good Productivity.

#rest #burnout_prevention #nature #energy_management

Connections:

Sources:

• From: Abdaal-Feel-good Productivity