Why Taking Breaks Boosts Productivity: My College Study Hack for Success

How Regular Breaks and Leisure Activities Helped Me Conquer Tough Assignments and Reduce Stress

Aug 29, 2024

A vector illustration of a young woman, with thick-framed red glasses, sitting at a desk in a well-lit room. Math textbooks and notes are scattered across the desk. The student is leaning back in her chair, relaxed, with her hands behind her head, giving a content and satisfied expression. Sunlight streams through the large windows in the background, illuminating the scene with a warm and peaceful ambiance. — Created with Meta AI

I used to think that powering through a tough assignments without breaks was the best way to get things done, but college taught me otherwise. During one particularly grueling math assignment, I was stuck on a problem that seemed impossible to solve. I’d been staring at my notes for hours, feeling more frustrated by the minute. The numbers swirled around in my head, but the solution stayed out of reach.

Then, I remembered something I’d read about the benefits of taking regular breaks. Reluctantly, I stepped away from my desk and took a short walk outside. The fresh air was like a reset button for my brain. When I got back, I approached the problem from a different angle—and the solution came to me almost immediately.

That experience taught me the value of incorporating breaks into my study schedule.

Short breaks, like those in the Pomodoro technique, not only improve concentration but also help with memory retention. They reduce stress and anxiety, allowing you to return to your work with renewed energy and focus. Over time, I also learned that engaging in leisure activities, like a walk or a quick game, boosts creativity and problem-solving abilities.

Taking time for myself isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential for staying productive and maintaining my well-being. By making breaks a regular part of my routine, I’ve found studying not only more manageable but also more enjoyable.

Love what you're reading? Forward this email to someone who will like it and…