It’s common to dread going back to school or work after a break. That feeling of wanting to stay in a constant limbo of freedom with no responsibilities is all too familiar. The absence of nagging assignments, looming deadlines, and work pressure is tempting.
But, as much as we might wish for it, we can’t stay in that space forever. Eventually, we have to face the reality that it’s time to transition back. I want to share some tips on how to make that return to school or work as smooth as possible.
Start with an Audit
The first thing I recommend is something I call an ‘audit.’ It’s a way of checking in on where you left off. If you’re reading this, you might be thinking, “That sounds like a lot of effort!” But trust me, it’s worth it.
Start by reviewing all your online platforms—whether it’s your school portal, your work assignments, or emails. Write down everything you need to catch up on—missed assignments, upcoming deadlines, unanswered emails, or calls you need to make.
After that, look ahead. What’s coming up in the next few days or weeks? What events or deadlines do you need to plan for? Add all of this to your to-do list.
Prioritize and Start Small
Once you have your list, take a moment to read through it. What stands out? Highlight the tasks that feel the most urgent or the easiest to complete. Personally, I recommend starting with the easier tasks—there’s something incredibly satisfying about crossing off small items on your list.
From there, pay attention to how you feel. If you still have energy, tackle something a little more challenging. If you’re feeling drained, don’t worry. Celebrate that you got started—that’s often the hardest part.
Why Breaks Matter: The Importance of Recharge
I was a bit quieter during the Fall 2024 semester, and if you’ve been following me, you might have noticed I haven’t posted any new videos or blogs. The reason? I needed a break. It’s important, even as an academic coach, to practice what I preach and take time to reset. Life can get overwhelming, and taking a break can give you the clarity and energy to come back stronger.
Breaks aren’t just a luxury—they’re a tool for maintaining balance and success. When you’re working without stopping, your brain eventually hits a wall. Regular breaks allow your mind to recharge, improving focus, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Without breaks, you risk burnout and lower productivity.
Next time you’re tempted to power through, remember: stepping away can actually help you get more done.
Different Types of Breaks
Not all breaks are the same, and the type of break you take depends on what you need. Here are a few options to consider:
- Physical breaks: Stand up, stretch, or take a short walk. This boosts circulation and energy.
- Mental breaks: Step away from challenging tasks to give your brain a chance to rest.
- Social breaks: Chat with a friend or colleague to reset your mood.
- Creative breaks: Engage in something fun or artistic to refresh your perspective.
Think of breaks as tools for recharging your energy and focus in different ways.
Busting Break Myths
Let’s clear up a few myths about breaks:
- Taking a break doesn’t mean you’re slacking—it means you’re working smarter.
- Breaks don’t have to be long—even a 5-10 minute pause can make a big difference.
- Breaks aren’t just about avoiding work—they’re about improving the quality of the work you do when you return.
Building Breaks Into Your Routine
So how do you incorporate breaks into your routine without feeling guilty? Here are some tips:
- Use the Pomodoro Technique: Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. This helps keep your focus sharp.
- Go for a quick walk: Movement can clear your mind and boost your energy.
- Practice mindfulness: Try deep breathing or meditation to reset your focus.
- Set boundaries: Block out time in your schedule for intentional pauses.
Wrapping It Up
Taking a break isn’t about avoiding work—it’s about returning to it with more focus, energy, and clarity. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, try stepping away—even just for a moment. You’ll be amazed at how much better you feel afterward.
If this advice resonates with you, let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more tips on thriving in your academic journey. Thanks for reading, and remember to take a break—you deserve it!