Why High-Achievers Never Feel Rested | Author of Superhabits

Most ambitious people know how to work. Very few know how to truly rest. In this conversation, Andrew Abela—Dean of the Busch School of Business and author of Superhabits—explains why so many high-achievers experience burnout even when they're getting enough sleep. Drawing from the wisdom of Thomas Aquinas, modern psychology, and practical experience, Andrew introduces the forgotten habit of good leisure: activities that refresh the mind simply because they're enjoyable in themselves—not because they're productive. We discuss: • Why sleep alone isn't enough to recover from burnout • The difference between physical rest and mental rest • Why your mind keeps racing even when you're exhausted • The hidden habit that prevents burnout • Why scrolling TikTok isn't true relaxation • The "Easy Button Test" for discovering what genuinely recharges you • Why high-achievers struggle to disconnect from work • How hobbies, walking, music, games, and simple activities restore your mind • Why burnout often comes from never giving your mind permission to stop solving problems If you've ever felt mentally exhausted despite getting enough sleep, constantly busy but never fully recharged, or guilty whenever you're not being productive, this conversation offers a completely different way to think about rest. Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is stop trying to be productive. Topics: Burnout, Mental Fatigue, Mental Health, Productivity, Work-Life Balance, Deep Rest, Self Improvement, Superhabits, Andrew Abela, Leisure, Psychology, Thomas Aquinas, Personal Growth, High Performers, High Achievers, Habits, Burnout Recovery, Happiness, Mindset Subscribe for conversations on careers, psychology, relationships, leadership, entrepreneurship, and practical wisdom for navigating your 20s.