Episode 17 - Burnt Out & Frazzled: How to Actually Rest Without Running Away to a Convent

Episode Summary:

In this powerfully honest episode, Nikki Cruise invites listeners into a real conversation about burnout, overwhelm, and the pressure of constantly being busy—even in the name of faith. She unpacks the culture of “Christian busy” and challenges the narrative that hustle equals holiness. Through humor, scripture, and heartfelt storytelling, Nikki reminds us that even Jesus took naps and often withdrew to rest. If Jesus wasn’t afraid to pause, why are we? Nikki helps us redefine rest not as weakness, but as worship and wisdom.

She paints a vivid picture of what burnout looks like in our daily lives—chaotic calendars, endless browser tabs, and the illusion that productivity equals purpose. Using biblical examples, she re-centers our understanding of rest as a spiritual practice. Nikki shares how learning to say “no,” prioritizing connection with God, and slowing down can actually lead us to deeper joy and greater clarity. This episode is both a mirror and a breath of fresh air for anyone running on empty. If you’ve been feeling frazzled and fantasizing about escape, Nikki’s message is your permission slip to pause and rest well.

Key Takeaways:

• Rest is Resistance: In a culture that glorifies busyness, choosing rest is a countercultural act of faith and obedience.
• You Can’t Pour from an Empty Cup: Constant output without replenishment leads to burnout. Rest is necessary, not optional.
• Jesus Rested—and So Should You: Jesus didn’t just rest after the work; He rested in the middle of it. That’s your permission to do the same.
• Setting health boundaries: Setting boundaries is not selfish—it’s wise stewardship of your time, energy, and calling.
• Your Identity Isn’t in What You Do: You are more than your productivity. God sees your heart, not your hustle.
• Stillness Creates Space for God’s Voice: Slowing down opens the door to deeper connection with God and clarity in your calling.
• Rest is a Weapon: When you pause, you regain strength, focus, and spiritual authority.

Scriptures Mentioned:

• Ecclesiastes 4:6 – “Better one handful with tranquillity than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind.”
• Luke 5:16 – “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”
• Mark 4:38-39 – Jesus sleeping in the storm, reminding us that rest is possible even in chaos.
• Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
• Psalm 23:2-3 – “He makes me lie down in green pastures… He restores my soul.”
• Exodus 33:14 – “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

Encouragement for Listeners:

• You don’t need to earn rest—God invites you into it freely.
• Jesus modeled rest not as an afterthought but as an intentional rhythm.
• It's okay to pause and say "no" without guilt.
• Your worth is not tied to your productivity.
• Being still allows you to hear God more clearly.
• True rest brings clarity, healing, and renewed purpose.

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Stay Connected with Nikki:

• Website: www.joyinspiredpodcast.com
• LinkedIn: @nikkijoyinspired
• Email: [e-mail]

Closing Encouragement:

“You were created for a unique purpose. When you invite God into your business, you step into a calling that impacts eternity. Remember, alignment doesn’t mean perfection—it’s a journey of trust, surrender, and joy.”

Until next time, stay blessed, stay joyful, and keep walking i