Breaks are NOT rewards. They are a necessity for well-being.
Somewhere in the neurospice of life, that gets mixed up (because our reward centers are bonkers). And we tell ourselves, "I'll sleep when I'm dead," as some kind of punishment for not getting something done.
But - I've learned - that's not how it works. Treats are rewards. Special engagements are rewards. Eating at a particular restaurant or tokens at the arcade are rewards.
Rest is self-care. Breaks are maintenance. Taking 5 minutes after an hour of study to rest the eyes and wiggle the limbs is like drinking water while out in the sun. Or warming up before a workout. Or using sunscreen. You Need Breaks To Function. You need breaks to prevent/minimize damage and/or illness.
Don't treat a break as a reward. Treat it like brushing your teeth, hydrating, movement, sunshine, etc... it is part of essential hygiene and safety, baby!














