The phrase "taking a load off" implies that someone is relaxing or taking a break from strenuous activity. Some antonyms for this phrase could be "working hard," "exerting oneself," or "attending to responsibilities." Instead of taking a load off, individuals might be focused on accomplishing tasks, meeting deadlines, or enduring challenging situations. Another antonym could be "stressed" or "burdened," as taking a load off often refers to releasing tension and being carefree. Overall, the opposite of taking a load off can vary depending on the context, but it generally involves being active, engaged, or overwhelmed by tasks or responsibilities.