The Power of a 10-Minute Daily Reset by Taniyah

The Power of a 10-Minute Daily Reset by Taniyah - February 2026 Scholarship Essay

A small habit that has made a big difference in my academic and personal success is doing a daily “10-minute reset” at the end of each day. It started as something I did on busy school nights when I felt overwhelmed and unorganized, but it quickly turned into a routine I rely on to stay focused, responsible, and calm. Every evening, I set a timer for ten minutes, put my phone on Do Not Disturb, and use that time to reset three things: my space, my schoolwork, and my mind. For my space, I quickly tidy my desk, put my notebooks and backpack in the same spot, and lay out what I need for the next day so I’m not rushing around in the morning. For my schoolwork, I open my planner, write down any upcoming assignments, tests, or deadlines, and prioritize what needs to be done first, which keeps me from forgetting tasks or waiting until the last minute. For my mind, I take a moment to reflect on the day what went well, what was stressful, and what I want to do differently tomorrow sometimes by jotting down a few sentences or just thinking it through quietly.

This habit seems small, but it has changed how I handle school and stress. Instead of waking up feeling behind or scattered, I start the day knowing exactly what I have to do and where everything is, which has helped me turn in work on time and stay prepared for quizzes and tests. It has also made it easier for me to balance school with family responsibilities and other activities because I can see my week clearly and plan around what I already have scheduled. On a personal level, the reflection part of my reset has made me more self-aware; I notice patterns in my behavior, like when I tend to procrastinate or when certain classes make me anxious, and I can adjust my habits instead of repeating the same mistakes. Over time, this simple 10-minute routine has helped me build consistency, reduce stress, and feel more in control of my goals, proving that even a small daily habit can create a big impact on both academic performance and personal growth.