Rest versus rust. It’s a debate that’s as old as competition itself, whether on the field or in the workplace. Recent events in the sports world have sparked fresh interest in the topic, but for leaders, the question remains timeless: How do we distinguish between the kind of pause that fuels momentum and the kind that slows us down?
Something interesting happened last week during the quarterfinal round of the College Football Playoff. All four teams that entered competition coming off a first-round bye—i.e., an extra week off—lost, prompting a resurgence of the age-old debate: Is extra rest a help or a hindrance?
This debate isn’t limited to football, or sports, even. Leaders face this dilemma, too, especially at the beginning of the year, when many of us are returning to a more normal work schedule after a few weeks of holiday celebrations, time with family and friends, and, if we’re lucky, extended time off. Does the time away from our everyday grind recharge us or weaken our game?
At Leadership Circle, we believe that rest is essential. It allows us to step out of the fray, reflect, and realign with our purpose. When intentional, rest is an act of renewal. Far from dulling our edge, rest sharpens us and equips us with the clarity and energy to lead more effectively.
Rust, by contrast, isn’t about taking time off. It’s the byproduct of neglect—neglecting to engage, to innovate, or to grow. Rust sets in when we’re stuck in cycles of inertia, mistaking busyness for productivity. Where rest is an act of caring for oneself, rust is the result of not caring at all. Put simply, rest is an investment in resilience, rust is the cost of stagnation.
So, how do we ensure we’re resting and not rusting? It starts with intentionality. Approach rest as a practice—time to recharge, reflect, and refine your focus. This could mean setting boundaries around your work, dedicating time to strategic thinking, or creating space for meaningful dialogue with your team.
The truth is, rest doesn’t hold you back; it propels you forward. It’s in these moments of pause that creativity flourishes, insights emerge, and energy is restored. As leaders, embracing rest is not just about personal well-being—it’s about modeling a culture of renewal and vitality for those we lead.
Here’s to leading with clarity and energy.
-Bill Adams, Co-Founder & CEO
About: Bill loves people and is passionate about relationships, leadership, and business. He is a serial entrepreneur who has started, owned and sold multiple businesses. As a founder and the current CEO of Leadership Circle, Bill brings thirty years of experience to his clients – the CEOs of major Fortune 500 corporations, non-profits, and private equity start-ups. In addition, Bill co- authored “Mastering Leadership” and “Scaling Leadership.” As a trusted advisor, teacher, consultant, and coach, he works with CEOs and top teams in fulfilling the promise of leadership.
