Why Settling Isn’t the End: Embracing Positive Restlessness
Have you ever worked tirelessly toward a goal, only to feel an unexpected sense of unease the moment you arrive at your destination? That subtle longing, even after reaching a milestone, isn’t a flaw in our character—it’s a clue pointing to something deeper about the human spirit. Instead of fighting the sense of restlessness, Jewish wisdom teaches us to harness it as the engine for lifelong growth.
The Holy Land’s Surprising Message
There’s a striking story in Jewish tradition: When the spies returned from scouting the Holy Land, they declared that it was “a land that consumes its settlers.” On the surface, their words sound foreboding. But Chassidic insight, as shared by Rabbi Simon Jacobson, flips this notion: The land’s very holiness rejects comfort zones. It doesn’t allow for spiritual stagnation—it demands continual movement and renewal. In other words, true fulfillment is found not in sitting still, but in striving for more.
Restlessness as a Sign of the Soul
On a personal level, each of us senses moments of dissatisfaction, even in times of accomplishment. Imagine being promoted at work or reaching a fitness milestone, only to feel there’s another mountain to climb. Rather than viewing this as a weakness, Jewish tradition invites us to see this drive as the soul’s way of urging us toward our next horizon.
From Complacency to Curiosity: Real-Life Lessons
Take the story of an artist who masters a technique, only to crave new forms of expression. Or think of a parent whose children grow up, and who then seeks new ways to nurture their own growth or give back to the community. In each case, growth stems from refusing to settle for yesterday’s achievements.
How to Turn Restlessness into Action
- Practice regular self-review: Set aside time each week to reflect on areas where you feel “too comfortable.” Jot down opportunities to challenge yourself with new learning or acts of kindness.
- Break the routine: Try something unfamiliar—whether it’s a skill, volunteering, or connecting with people you wouldn’t otherwise meet. Each small act outside your comfort zone is a step toward new spiritual vistas.
- Transform setbacks: When frustrations arise, see them as prompts for growth. Ask yourself: What lesson or new direction is being suggested here?
- Share the journey: Invite others into your growth process, either by joining a group focused on personal or spiritual development or by supporting friends in their own journeys. Growth is richer when we don’t walk alone.
Growth Is a Lifelong Journey
Rabbi Jacobson’s approach challenges the assumption that “making it” means standing still. Instead, life’s deepest meaning unfolds when we remain a little restless—pushing forward, nourishing curiosity, and embracing change with open arms. The Holy Land’s lesson is clear: Don’t let comfort become your final destination. Choose curiosity over complacency, movement over maintenance—every single day.
For more inspiration on living an ever-expanding life, explore the full range of Rabbi Jacobson’s classes and resources at the Meaningful Life Center.
