I was raised to think that demanding work was the price you paid to be excellent. Anyone who took breaks was never going to be great. However, as I read more, I realized that breaks are often the fuel we need to reach excellence.
Breaks often allow us to keep up our passion. Research has shown that even small breaks of 5-10 minutes can raise your energy. After studying for a while, a wonderful way to reward yourself is with a small break. As a teacher, I try not to give quizzes or tests on Mondays so that students can have the weekend to enjoy themselves
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Spacing has been shown as a powerful way to study and retain knowledge for an extended period. In this method, you might study for 30 minutes a day, taking a break from that particular subject until the next day. This study practice has proven to be effective even though it is extremely difficult to get students to follow it.
Lastly, breaks allow you to work on problems in your unconscious mind. Adam Grant found in his research that taking breaks can boost creativity. The solution to a problem often pops into your head when you are not consciously thinking about it.
Do not think of breaks as easing up. Instead, think of breaks as the boost you need to push yourself across the finish line.
