01 Sep 2022 | 3 mins
Overview
  • Are you in the midst of the lead up to exams and honestly can’t remember the last time you took that well deserved break?
  • Or have you just finished off your trials and can’t seem to switch off? This one's for you!

1. You’ve been staring out the window for 20 minutes

As soon as the staring starts - and it isn’t because you’re trying to find that creative inspiration - it’s time to go outside, or simply just take a break. Staring out the window is the worst because it feels like time passes so quickly but when you check back at the clock it's been 4 minutes.

You need an active rest that involves you getting out of that chair. Don’t let yourself stare into the abyss thinking about what work you are going to do. Take a break and you can come back to it when you are ready to go.

2. Can’t remember the last time you had a day off

If it has been long enough that the last day you had off was so long ago you can't remember when it actually was, you are definitly in need of a study break.

Taking a full day for yourself is sometimes exactly what you need, and don’t feel guilty about it. Sometimes it's all about those days where you don't even have to think about studying.

3. Don’t have time for anything besides your notes

This is another test for your memory, but if you can’t remember when the last time you took time to catch up with family or friends was, you definitely need a break.

Sometimes it can be so easy to get caught up in the very present moment thinking about what you are studying. Being able to talk to others and catch up with them, but also talk through how you are going can help relieve stress.

4. Your eyes hurt

If your eyes are hurting that is a telltale sign that you have been on that laptop for too long. Staring at a screen for hours on end, and particularly at night, is not only painful, but can also hurt your sleep.

Making sure your body is down to get studying is definitely one of the most important parts of getting some study done.

5. You are finding every opportunity to distract yourself

If you’ve gotten to this point, please take that break. Set yourself a timer (or five) for one hour and go grab some lunch or go for a walk and take a break! That hour is well worth spending, so when you come back to it you feel more refreshed and on top of life.

So go and get out of that chair. Leave your laptop and notes behind and get that study break you deserve!