With never ending to-do lists, plenty of assignments and other commitments filling up schedules, getting the proper amount of rest feels nearly impossible.
However, there is nothing beneficial about running on empty all the time.
Enter burnout. You may have heard this term before but according to The American Psychological Association, burnout is classified as mental, physical or emotional exhaustion that shows itself through weakened performance, negative attitude and decreased motivation.
For college students, the pressure to keep up with demanding schedules can make it especially hard to allow yourself to slow down. While there is an incentive to maximize the college experience, overinflating your calendar can quickly overload your ability to thrive.
I’m not here to tell you that you have to remove everything from your schedule — only that you need to prioritize getting a good amount of rest. Maybe adding one “no” for every “yes” will create the time you need for a break.
Rest comes in many different forms. Some prioritize getting a full night’s sleep, whereas others may prefer watching their favorite show. A short break between your tasks gives your brain the time it needs to reset.
One of the biggest misconceptions about rest is that it is unproductive. Just because you need a break doesn’t mean you’re lazy. Make sure you have activities that are enjoyable outside of school, like reading or exercising, to create a work-life balance.
In reality, taking a break may actually help in having a clearer mind when you return to your tasks. Operating at full speed indefinitely is not the way to go, nor is it even practical, but giving your body the ability to recharge is.
Recognizing the signs of burnout before you’re in too deep is pivotal. Lack of motivation and irritability are the telltale signs that you may need to relax, according to Mental Health America. Taking a break doesn’tmean you’re quitting or giving up — just that you are listening to your body and giving it what it needs.
Just as you cannot survive without food and water, you cannot survive without rest, so make it something that you prioritize rather than put off.
For those who feel guilty about resting, remember there will always be another assignment, but the rest is what makes that assignment possible and sustainable.
Sizemore is the POV editor for The Liberty Champion.