Taking Breaks to Avoid Breakdown by Peytra

Taking Breaks to Avoid Breakdown by Peytra - February 2026 Scholarship Essay

A small habit I include that has completely changed my success rate is simply taking breaks. Overworking leads to burnout and breakdown. We are all human, and without taking breaks, the human body cannot function correctly. We aren't built like machines that don't need time to process. Before I took breaks and gave myself time I would attempt to work until I broke- leading to frustration and mediocre results. Taking even a 5 minute break to stretch and get up, or have a cup of tea resets my brain and gets me back into a learning headspace. Most students like to rush to get their work done, not pausing at all to think. Taking a break can let me come back to my work with fresh eyes and spot silly or even major mistakes I wouldn't have noticed otherwise. Some might be concerned that stopping and stretching might increase their time spent studying. However, when the body and brain is given a chance to rest, the work can often be performed more quickly and efficiently. Teachers and parents should be recommending breaks, not discouraging students to take a rest and come back refreshed. It can save loads of time and stress.