Hey, you! Yes, you! Reading this article right now! I'm guessing that you're procrastinating for some reason right now –– I can relate.

After all, I am procrastinating studying for a test by writing this article. We're all in the same boat, and that's why I feel like I can share something with you. Nothing too deep, nothing too dramatic, just a truth that I discovered recently that I think might help you out. Ready for it?

Ok, here it goes: you can take a break.

That seems obvious at first glance: "Of course I can take a break!" you say. "Why, I take a break every half hour or so to check Instagram!" And I support those kinds of breaks, the mindless ones where you don't need to think as hard. However, the kind of break I'm talking about is the one that takes up more than five minutes. Instead, I want you to find time to take break that is far more substantial, one where you can spend time with friends or nap or read or go for a run or just do something that feels good to you, even if you haven't finished up all of your homework yet.

This sort of break takes a good sense of balancing, of course: you can't just ignore all your work while relaxing. Instead, try to find a good time to set down your calculus equations and history essays so you can recharge and refocus before finally finishing everything up. This sort of practice might take some time to figure out fully, but I promise you, when you finally are able to balance work and play, you'll feel like your life is far more fun (and focused!) than it was before you could both study and spend time with those you love.

This article isn't meant to provide step by step instructions, because taking breaks is a personal experience: instead, try to find your own system, and be sure to keep up the practice until you can finally say that you've mastered the art of the study break.