The Power of Taking Breaks: 3 Lessons in Productivity and Consistency

taking breaks

Hello Pythonistas, welcome back to python-hub.com!

Today’s a little different. Instead of sharing a new project, tool, or exciting series, I want to talk about something more personal—a life lesson I’ve learned along the way.

If you’re here for something technical, feel free to explore the other articles on the site. But if you’re someone who enjoys reflecting on life and yourself, just like I do, stay with me!

I want to talk about three things today:

  1. The importance of taking breaks for productivity.
  2. The power of going slow and staying consistent.
  3. How to actually develop a habit.

Let’s dive in!

The Importance of Taking Breaks for Productivity

I usually describe myself as a bit of a workaholic.

I often push myself to the limit, working a lot and trying to accomplish as much as I can.

But, as you can imagine, that can be exhausting.

And I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s been there.

My father, who’s always had a knack for knowing what’s best for me, noticed how burnt out I was week after week.

He suggested something that seemed totally counterintuitive to me: Take breaks.

At first, I didn’t agree at all.

“Taking breaks?” I thought.

“That’s not productive!”

But because I trust him, I gave it a try anyway.

The first few times were awkward. I’d just sit around, relaxing or getting bored, and it felt strange not working. But I stuck with it.

And, believe it or not, those breaks turned out to be incredibly useful.

During those times, I started getting some amazing ideas—some I’ve even started working on. And when I returned to work, I was better at it.

I had more energy and creativity.

Now, I still work every day like I used to, but I’ve learned to listen to myself. When I feel tired or can’t think anymore, I take a break.

I use that time to do something for myself—whether it’s skincare, playing outside to stay fit, sitting in silence, observing myself, or even reading my frustrations written in my diary.

It’s “me time,” and I honestly can’t overstate how beneficial it is.

So, here’s my advice:

Take small breaks.

Carve out time in your day to do nothing at all.

That’s when the creative ideas will flow.

Some will work, some won’t—but that’s part of the fun.

Who knows, maybe you’ll stumble upon something you’re passionate about, something that resonates with the market, and maybe that’ll lead to success.

Just saying. 😉

Taking Things Slow and Consistent

For a long time, I was all about the “I’ll do it all today” mentality.

I wanted quick results—just like anyone in their early 20s.

But the reality?

I rarely got them.

And when I didn’t, I’d get frustrated with myself.

Even when I was working, I wasn’t really there. I was just annoyed, thinking, “Why didn’t that work? What’s wrong with me?”

But then, I decided to try a different approach—finally applying the lessons from the Atomic Habits book, which I had read years ago but never really implemented.

I asked myself, “Why not take small steps that I can consistently do every day?”

Rather than trying to tackle something huge that might overwhelm me or lead to burnout, I focused on achievable, bite-sized goals.

And guess what?

It worked. I can slowly see the power of compounding taking effect, and I’m sure I’ll see it even more in 4-5 years.

Taking Breaks

Actually Developing a Habit

That’s how you develop a habit—by setting small, achievable tasks and showing up every day (or even every alternate day).

The key is not to be hard on yourself if you miss a day.a

Remember, you’re just starting out, and it’s okay to stumble a little.

The trick is to make it easier on yourself.

Instead of pushing to be perfect every day, focus on being consistent—give yourself the space to grow and learn.

And along the way, leave room for observation and creativity.

Let life change slowly and beautifully, one step at a time.

Taking Breaks

Closing Thoughts

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. What resonated with you? What didn’t? Feel free to share in the comment section below—I’m always up for brainstorming!

Until then, stay happy, stay curious, keep exploring, and, of course, keep building.

I’ll see you here next time, whether it’s with new insights, a fresh project, or something technical!

Bye for now! 👋

Taking Breaks

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