I’ve always been the kind of person who prided herself on being independent. I was the one with the to-do list, the one who kept the family machine running. Groceries, schedules, work deadlines—you name it, I carried it. Until one spring back in 2021, COVID brought me to my knees. Literally.

Within days, my body was completely wiped out. I lost twelve pounds in a week. I was too weak to walk. At one point, I crawled into the bathtub hoping a warm soak would help me feel human again… only to realize I couldn’t get out on my own. I had to call my husband to lift me up. For someone who’s used to being the strong one, that was one of the hardest moments I’ve ever faced.

And yet, as I lay in bed, too tired to micromanage anything, I learned three lessons I’ll carry with me forever:

1. The important things will still get done — even if I can’t do them myself

While I was flat on my back, life kept moving. The kids still had dinner. Work deadlines were still met. The house didn’t fall apart. I had always believed that if I stopped, everything else would crumble. It didn’t. Releasing control gave the people around me a chance to rise, and they did. Sometimes, the most important thing I can do is step back and let others step in.

2. Asking for help is an act of strength

Calling out for help from the bathtub felt humiliating at first. But it turned into one of the most intimate reminders that I don’t have to do everything alone. My husband was glad to be there for me. My kids learned that taking care of one another is part of what makes a family strong. Letting others carry part of the load isn’t weakness…it’s connection.

3. Rest is not optional

I used to wear exhaustion like a badge of honor. If I wasn’t busy, I felt like I was failing. But when COVID forced me into bed, I realized that rest isn’t the enemy—it’s the medicine. Rather than making me less productive, rest makes me more human. It’s the pause that allows me to come back stronger.

I wouldn’t wish that illness on anyone. But in hindsight, I can see it gave me exactly what I needed: perspective. The world didn’t end when I couldn’t “do it all.” My family proved they could step up. And I learned that my worth isn’t measured by my output. It’s measured by my presence, my love, and my ability to care for myself, too.

💜 If you’ve been carrying it all and waiting for the “right time” to rest, learn from my mistake: don’t wait until you’re forced to stop. If you’re ready to set boundaries and create a sustainable rhythm for your life, I’d love to help. Let’s book a Boundary Clarity Call and explore how you can find balance—without burning out.