I know you don’t think you should take a break right now. Why? Because you’re too busy. This column is probably one of many internet tabs you have open. Your to-do list is likely overflowing and packed with both menial chores and massive assignments. However did you know that a break is actually what could improve your attitude, learning and productivity.
When the pressure has eased and the holidays are upon us you can think rationally. The power of a holiday allows us to refocus on any important tasks at hand. The human brain just wasn’t built for the prolonged focus we ask of it. So focusing hard on one thing for a long period of time isn’t something we are going to be great at. University of Illinois psychology professor Alejandro Lleras explains “From a practical standpoint, our research suggests that, when faced with long projects (such as studying for final exams)… having a break beforehand will actually help you stay focused on your task!”
Evidently a holiday is beneficial to your future grades. Yay! So give yourself a break. Having a proper holiday helps to give perspective on the role of school within your life. Holidays have the potential to break into the stress cycle. Which for most high achieving Aquinas students, is important. It gives the body the chance to replenish itself – like letting the grass grow back. You’ll emerge from a successful holiday feeling ready to take on the world again.
So no matter how much pressure you feel to catch up or get ahead during the holidays… Take a break! The secular world seems to have an obsession with being busy. This can be positive but not at the expense of the quality of your work, or the expense of who you are. So rest up. Put away the to-do list and close those tabs for now. Take a real break. You earned it.
