by Writing Workshops Staff
A month ago
When Amanda Miller Littlejohn joined our Paris writing workshop in summer 2022, she was already a successful executive coach and brand strategist with global clients. But like many high achievers, she was navigating the complexities of burnout, purpose, and finding a sustainable rhythm in an overworked world. What happened next demonstrates the transformative power of community, mentorship, and taking your writing seriously.
From Paris to Published: A Rest Revolution
Amanda's latest book, The Rest Revolution: How to Reclaim Your Rhythm and Conquer Burnout When Overworking Has Become the Norm, was published by Wiley Press on November 13, 2024. The book tackles one of the most pressing issues facing today's professionals: how to achieve success without sacrificing well-being.
"In today's culture, many high-achieving professionals are on the verge of burnout," Amanda writes. "Sometimes unconsciously and other times overtly, many are pushed to keep working to prove their worth, produce at unsustainable levels, and continue striving to reach new heights at the expense of their physical and mental well-being."
Her book offers practical solutions through what she calls Purposescaping, escaping the machine mindset to restore depleted purpose by understanding personal seasons and reclaiming rhythm beyond burnout.
The Power of Community and Structure
Amanda credits her time in our Paris workshop with Chloe Caldwell as a pivotal moment in her writing journey. "The Paris retreat helped me gain momentum," she reflects. But she didn't stop there – she continued building her skills through multiple Writing Workshops courses, including Start a Newsletter to Supercharge Your Platform with Courtney Kocak, How to Write the New York Times Essay with Sarah Herrington, and Discovering Your Memoir's Form with Amanda Montei.
The most valuable lesson she gained? "Think and dream big for my writing. Make a plan, schedule, and structure for writing success. Take myself and my writing seriously and watch the results happen."
Beyond Books: A Growing Platform
Amanda's writing extends far beyond her book. As a 2024-2025 Rosalynn Carter Mental Health Journalism Fellow, she's been making waves in major publications. Her work has appeared in The Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and Forbes, with a focus on the mental health challenges of high-achieving midlife professionals.
She's also become a regular contributor to Business Insider, with three parenting articles published since summer 2024, further expanding her reach and impact in addressing the mental load of motherhood and modern exhaustion.
Finding Inspiration in Connection
What keeps Amanda motivated? "Getting in community has helped me stay focused on my writing and purpose," she explains. "I am inspired by the amazing people I meet and stories I get to tell and am motivated when readers respond and share how my work makes them feel seen."
Currently, she's reporting on midlife mental health, particularly focusing on high achievers navigating the triple pressures of parenting, caregiving, and financial responsibilities.
The Ripple Effect of Rest
Amanda's approach goes beyond individual recovery. Through her speaking and workshop offerings, she helps organizations understand that "the fruits of our labor are spoiled if we don't have time or energy to enjoy our lives." Her work includes innovative concepts like Front-burnering – prioritizing purpose, joy, and self-connection instead of letting them take a backseat to endless productivity.
A Testament to Taking Writing Seriously
Amanda's journey from our Paris workshop to published author and sought-after journalist illustrates what's possible when writers commit to community, structure, and taking their craft seriously. Her favorite part of the Writing Workshops experience? "The instructors! Chloe Caldwell, Sarah Herrington, Blake Kimzey, Amanda Montei, Courtney Kocak."
Today, Amanda continues to redefine what ambition looks like in the post-pandemic era, helping others find sustainable paths to success through her writing, coaching, and speaking. Her story reminds us that sometimes the most revolutionary act is learning how to rest – and that the right writing community can help you find your voice to share that message with the world.
Learn more about Amanda Miller Littlejohn's work at amandamillerlittlejohn.com and find "The Rest Revolution" at therestrevolutionbook.com. Follow her on Instagram and Threads @iamamandamillerlittlejohn or X @amandamogul.
Ready to find your own writing momentum? Explore our upcoming workshops and join a community of writers who are serious about their craft.
