When someone tells you “Don’t work too hard,” it can feel like a sweet warning… or a tiny brush-off. Sometimes it comes from genuine care, and other times it may come from a place of discomfort or even judgment. Either way, it’s your chance to respond in a way that shows confidence, kindness, and clear boundaries—without sounding defensive or rude.
Below are 30 thoughtful comebacks you can use depending on the situation. Each one is designed to be warm, respectful, and expressive, while still letting you speak your truth. These responses are perfect for friends, family, coworkers, or anyone who’s trying to redirect your energy.
1. “I appreciate your concern—I’m just really passionate about this.”
Best use: When someone means well.
Not to use: If the person is clearly judging you.
Other ways to say:
- “Thanks, I’m just in my flow.”
- “I’m good, I’m just focused.”
Example:
“Thanks for saying that. I’m just really passionate about this project.”
2. “I’m not working too hard—I’m working with purpose.”
Best use: When you want to affirm your motivation.
Not to use: If the person is trying to help you avoid burnout.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m working with intention.”
- “I’m in the zone.”
Example:
“I’m not overdoing it—I’m just working with purpose.”
3. “I’m balancing it—don’t worry.”
Best use: When someone worries about your well-being.
Not to use: If you actually need a break.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m managing it.”
- “I’ve got a system.”
Example:
“I’m balancing it well, thanks for caring.”
4. “I’m taking breaks—just not during my peak hours.”
Best use: When you want to show self-awareness.
Not to use: If you’re clearly overwhelmed.
Other ways to say:
- “I rest when I need to.”
- “I have a routine.”
Example:
“I’m taking breaks, just not during my peak hours.”
5. “I know my limits—I’m just choosing to push them.”
Best use: When you want to show confidence.
Not to use: If someone is genuinely worried about burnout.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m stretching myself safely.”
- “I’m challenging myself.”
Example:
“I know my limits, but I’m choosing to push them.”
6. “Thank you—your concern means a lot.”
Best use: When someone is being supportive.
Not to use: If you don’t actually care about their comment.
Other ways to say:
- “That’s kind of you.”
- “I appreciate that.”
Example:
“Thanks, I appreciate your concern.”
7. “I’m okay—just motivated.”
Best use: When you want to keep it short and sweet.
Not to use: If you want a deeper conversation.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m in a good rhythm.”
- “I’m feeling driven.”
Example:
“I’m okay—just motivated.”
8. “I’m not stressed—I’m energized.”
Best use: When someone assumes you’re overwhelmed.
Not to use: If you’re actually stressed.
Other ways to say:
- “I feel alive.”
- “I’m excited.”
Example:
“I’m not stressed—I’m energized.”
9. “I’m working hard because I want this.”
Best use: When you want to show purpose.
Not to use: If the person thinks you’re obsessive.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m working because I care.”
- “I’m doing this for a reason.”
Example:
“I’m working hard because I want this.”
10. “I hear you. I’ll rest when I need to.”
Best use: When you want to show responsibility.
Not to use: If you ignore your own needs.
Other ways to say:
- “I’ll take a break soon.”
- “I’ll slow down when needed.”
Example:
“I hear you. I’ll rest when I need to.”
11. “This is my season—thanks for noticing.”
Best use: When you’re in a growth phase.
Not to use: If you don’t want to share personal goals.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m in a strong season.”
- “I’m in a focused phase.”
Example:
“This is my season—thanks for noticing.”
12. “I’m working smart, not just hard.”
Best use: When you want to show strategy.
Not to use: If someone thinks you’re overworking.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m being efficient.”
- “I’m being intentional.”
Example:
“I’m working smart, not just hard.”
13. “I’ll pace myself—I promise.”
Best use: When you want to reassure.
Not to use: If you’re avoiding responsibility.
Other ways to say:
- “I’ll be mindful.”
- “I’ll slow down if needed.”
Example:
“I’ll pace myself—I promise.”
14. “I’m not doing this for approval.”
Best use: When someone assumes you’re overcompensating.
Not to use: If you actually want their support.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m doing this for myself.”
- “This is for me.”
Example:
“I’m not doing this for approval.”
15. “I’m building something I’m proud of.”
Best use: When you want to express purpose.
Not to use: If you’re unsure of your goals.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m creating something meaningful.”
- “I’m building my future.”
Example:
“I’m building something I’m proud of.”
16. “I’ll take care of myself—thanks.”
Best use: When someone is genuinely caring.
Not to use: If you don’t want to show vulnerability.
Other ways to say:
- “I’ll make sure I rest.”
- “I’m taking care.”
Example:
“I’ll take care of myself—thanks.”
17. “I’m enjoying the process.”
Best use: When you want to show passion.
Not to use: If you’re feeling stressed.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m loving it.”
- “I’m enjoying the journey.”
Example:
“I’m enjoying the process.”
18. “I’m just doing what I promised myself.”
Best use: When you want to show commitment.
Not to use: If you’re feeling forced.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m keeping my word.”
- “I’m following through.”
Example:
“I’m just doing what I promised myself.”
19. “I’m taking it step by step.”
Best use: When you want to show control.
Not to use: If you’re rushing.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m pacing myself.”
- “I’m doing it gradually.”
Example:
“I’m taking it step by step.”
20. “I’m not trying to impress anyone.”
Best use: When you want to show authenticity.
Not to use: If you’re insecure.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m being myself.”
- “I’m being real.”
Example:
“I’m not trying to impress anyone.”
21. “I’m focused, not frantic.”
Best use: When someone thinks you’re stressed.
Not to use: If you’re actually overwhelmed.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m centered.”
- “I’m calm.”
Example:
“I’m focused, not frantic.”
22. “Thanks, but I’m okay. I’m just motivated.”
Best use: When you want to keep it light.
Not to use: If someone is genuinely worried.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m good, just driven.”
- “I’m fine, just inspired.”
Example:
“Thanks, but I’m okay. I’m just motivated.”
23. “I’m not overdoing it—this is my healthy pace.”
Best use: When you want to set boundaries.
Not to use: If you’re pushing yourself too far.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m at a healthy rhythm.”
- “I’m in a good groove.”
Example:
“I’m not overdoing it—this is my healthy pace.”
24. “I’m not rushing—I’m progressing.”
Best use: When someone thinks you’re impatient.
Not to use: If you’re actually rushing.
Other ways to say:
- “I’m moving forward.”
- “I’m advancing.”
Example:
“I’m not rushing—I’m progressing.”
25. “I’ll take a break when I need one—thanks for caring.”
Best use: When you want to show maturity.
Not to use: If you’re ignoring your own needs.
Other ways to say:
- “I’ll rest when necessary.”
- “I’ll slow down soon.”
Example:
“I’ll take a break when I need one—thanks for caring.”
Why People Pick These Comebacks
People choose these responses because they balance kindness with confidence. They’re designed to:
- Show appreciation without sounding weak
- Set boundaries without sounding harsh
- Express passion without sounding defensive
- Stay honest without being rude
- Keep the conversation warm even when you disagree
From my personal experience, the best comeback is the one that feels true to you. I’ve used many of these lines in real-life situations—at work, with friends, and even with family. The ones that work best are the ones that reflect your values and emotional tone.
