A reminder during exam season

Sometimes the pressure during exams can feel overwhelming. Between deadlines, endless revision sessions, and the expectation to stay on top of everything, it’s easy to get stuck in the trap of thinking you have to be constantly productive to be successful. But here’s the thing: it’s okay to not be productive sometimes.

In fact, not being productive is crucial for your mental wellbeing, especially during times like this. Let’s dive into why it’s perfectly fine to take a break, and how stepping back can actually make you more effective in the long run.

1. You don’t have to be doing something all the time

We live in a world that glorifies productivity. You might see everyone around you in full “revision mode,” cramming, working, and pushing through their to-do lists. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to be doing something all the time to be successful.

It’s not a competition. Everyone works at their own pace, and you’re allowed to take breaks without feeling guilty. Whether it’s scrolling through social media, watching an episode of your favourite series, or even just having a nap as your brain needs rest. You can’t run on empty, and constant work without breaks only leads to burnout.

2. Downtime is actually productive

Sounds counterintuitive, right? But downtime is actually productive. When you rest, you give your mind the space to process everything you’ve been learning. That break might help you come back to your revision refreshed, with more clarity and focus.

Think of it like charging your phone: if you don’t give it time to charge, it won’t work properly. The same goes for you! You need to step away from the books, recharge, and let your brain absorb all the information you’ve been cramming in.

3. Mental health matters more than productivity

It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of exams, but your mental health should always be your number one priority. If you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or mentally drained, it’s important to listen to your body and mind.

Taking time off isn’t lazy, it’s self-care. It’s crucial to take care of your mental health, especially during the stress of exam season. Sometimes, stepping away from your desk, going for a walk, or having a conversation with a friend can make a huge difference in how you feel.

4. It’s okay to not be perfect

If you’re constantly pushing yourself to be the perfect student, you’re setting yourself up for unnecessary pressure. The truth is, no one is perfect, and no one is productive 100% of the time. Perfection is overrated, and the idea that you should be "on it" all the time is unrealistic.

Sometimes, the best thing you can do is just acknowledge that you’ve done your best so far. Even if it doesn’t feel like enough, you’ve been working hard, and that's something to be proud of. Give yourself credit for what you’ve achieved and don’t beat yourself up for not doing more.

5. You’re not alone

If you’re struggling with productivity and feeling like you should be doing more, just know that you’re not alone. Everyone goes through periods of feeling unproductive, especially during high-pressure times like exams. It’s completely normal.

Reach out to friends, family, or university support services if you need to talk. Sometimes just knowing that other people feel the same way can help take the pressure off.

Embrace the balance

So, the next time you feel like you’re not being “productive enough” during exam season, remember that it’s okay to take a step back. Your wellbeing matters, and sometimes doing nothing is the most productive thing you can do. Take a breather, look after yourself, and get back to work when you’re ready.

If you need any more support or advice, reach out to your university’s mental health services or talk to someone you trust. It’s okay to not be okay, and it’s okay to take time for yourself.