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Writer's pictureBilquis Ali
Sep 192 min read

Taking a Mental Health Day: Why It's Okay to Hit Pause


Today, I took a mental health day.


Yes, you read that right—I took a day off.


Yesterday, I felt a sense of overwhelm creeping in, and I found myself contemplating the idea of just stepping away from it all for a bit.

If you're anything like me, you know the feeling.


I tend to put a lot of pressure on myself; I'm an overachiever, and it's like I have this internal drive that just won't let me be unless I'm being of service to someone.


It’s not just about giving away money or resources—it's about giving away the one thing I can never get back: my time.


But here’s the kicker.


This month, I noticed something alarming.


I was giving away so much of my time that I lost track of it, which set me back in ways that made it difficult to catch up.


Let me break it down for you: I work a full-time job, I'm a single mother, and I run my own business.


Each of these roles is demanding in its own right, and juggling them all can feel like a never-ending balancing act.


So today, I had to take a hard look in the mirror and ask myself, "Bilquis, what do you want? What are you chasing?"


I needed to gain clarity.


I needed to step away from everything—pray about it, write about it, and yes, even cry about it.


Emotions were bubbling up, and I realized I needed this day more than I thought.


One of the things I love about myself is that I’m okay with being open about what I’m dealing with.


And I know there are many single mothers out there, just like me, who are holding it down with no child support, working that 9-to-5, juggling life, school, and simply trying to figure things out.


That’s why I needed to take this day.


As a leader, I always feel the need to show up, no matter what.


But also, as a leader, I need to know when it’s time to take a seat.


Today was that day.


And before you say, "But Bilquis, why are you blogging if it's a mental health day?"—LOL—I can literally write all day.


Writing is one of my stress reliefs. It’s been my go-to my entire life, and I dream of one day having my own stationery store.


It’s not work for me; it's healing.


So, if you find yourself needing a mental health day, take it.


And don't just take it—embrace it.


Enjoy being with you for the day.


Here's what I did today: I journaled, allowing myself to focus and pour out all the thoughts swirling in my head.


I took a walk because there's nothing better than some fresh air to clear the mind.


And I worked on things that fulfilled me, and only me.


Most importantly, I gained clarity on the direction I want to go.


Sometimes, we need to hit pause to gain a clearer picture of where we're headed.


So, take that mental health day.


You'll be amazed at what a little time away can do for your soul.






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