After relocating to Italy, the author initially struggled with the slower pace and societal norms around rest. Originating from a culture centered on productivity and 'busy-ness', she was confronted by the Italian approach of pausing for leisurely activities without guilt. Over time, she started to appreciate the importance of rest and gradually let go of her ingrained beliefs about self-worth being tied to productivity. The transition led to an identity crisis but ultimately enriched her life and mindset.
At first, I didn't understand how people could spend hours lounging and socializing. However, I've learned to prioritize rest and to stop apologizing for slowing down.
I genuinely believed that if I wasn't actively working toward something, I was falling behind. I'd internalized the idea that a relentless work ethic was how you achieved the American dream.
When I moved to a place where people unapologetically paused their days - not just for vacation, but for lunch, coffee, or for no reason at all - I didn't know what to do with myself.
Trying to slow down made me question my self-worth. For the first six years after my move, I felt like I was having a mini identity crisis.
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