When I was younger, I used to study based on this idea of "flow" without ever realizing what it was. I could study 5 hours straight and not feel "tired." As I got further into university, people kept saying that one has to take breaks. It's proven fact that you can only remember something for so long before it declines so breaks are important. I didn't see that in myself, but thought well it's science right? So I started taking more breaks. I've noticed my productivity and my learning declined dramatically. Seeing this video reminded me of how I used to do school and that I also used to do "productive breaks" instead of the conventional ones. I don't think studying/learning methods are a one size fits all situation. People need to study in their own way. Everyone needs to find what works for them. Thanks for the video and sorry for the long response!
@@mariambarakat6057 study only prove that you can be fully productive a certain amount of time I think as an adult it's 40 minutes but for kids it's only 15 minutes and then your productivity decline and if you want to your productivity always be as the best you have to only make a break of 5 Minutes!! Nothing more.
Tldw: •Avoid having breaks as rewards because it will trick the mind into thinking that studying is daunting which is why we take breaks in the first place. (The sawyer effect) •Only have a break when you need it, when you feel that you are performing worse. *make sure that break will help you get back to study stronger. (Ex: exercise, drink tea, have some fresh air) •you can have a sluggish break when you have finished everything.
Actually I think that's a very damaging way to study. Everyone needs breaks. Taking yourself out of studying for just 30 minutes where you don't do anything except which an episode or listen to some music or anything fun, can be enough for you to feel more motivated for studying.
@@evemae5716 what I said above is just a small summary of the video, watch the full video to better understand why she and many other people (such as myself) have preferred this way. 😊 But I think it all comes down to the individual and the study method that works best for them.
I do house chores in my study breaks. So after i’ve finished studying i have everything done including dull things like wiping boots without purposedly giving it extra time. Plus my body gets to move around if i’m doing chores
Well I think this can mainly be applied to the type of studying you do. Your course is rather slow pace, hence you enjoy studying because You get to write essays, understand and reflect on things, read books etc. As a third year medical student I can tell you that is very different from e.g. having to learn crazy amounts of Anatomy vocabulary by heart in short amounts of time. If I didˋt take recreational breaks I would have no recreational/fun/free/time with friends or my boyfriend anymore. Also we have a system where we have examens every 3Weeks that you need to pass! Best wishes from Germany.
I don't agree. There is another youtuber who is a medical student at Cambridge... I can't remember her name.. Holly Gabrielle I believe.. she recommended the same thing as this video.. but it's okay to each his own. There is no rule. You do what suits you. And there's no harm in just trying out something new. We might just surprise ourselves.
em I can’t speak to medical school as I haven’t experienced that, but as someone in college studying math and the hard sciences, I have found that Ruby’s tips absolutely work the best for me, or else I just get distracted and stop studying. I do think it depends more on the person than their courses
Yes, I also believe that you can put that method down to the nature of Ruby's degree! She doesn't have to know 500+ slides by heart so she can go on for much longer. I study business, modern languages and cultural studies and I see benefits in both techniques. Languages really require maximum focus (learning new vocab. etc.) and I mainly use the pomodoro technique for that. For marketing and any business module that also requires knowing hundreds of slides by heart I use that method as well. But for complex calculations or writing essays you have to give yourself time in order to get into it - obviously. But breaks are important no matter which type of revision you employ
For anyone who struggles with their screen time and productivity, the biggest tips i have are to keep your phone aside till lunch time. Make a commitment to yourself to do something other than looking at your phone till lunchtime. At lunch you can perhaps use it for a set amount of time Another tip is to not look at the time while studying. This makes your brain think that you need a break cause you've been studying for an hour or half an hour or whatever. Please try using these 2 tips, are definitely gonna help you a lot!
• Arshia thank you :) sounds good. I don’t have a problem with using my phone too often but I‘m always glancing at the time and start to think „ok, I studied 1-2h“ I can now take a break. Yesterday I helped my little sister study chemistry. I didn’t look at the time and I also didn’t feel any pressure to do well since it’s not me that has to write the exam. Not feeling any pressure I noticed that I actually had fun studying since I didn’t study for school but for myself/ or rather my sister. I wish I could be more at ease when studying for my own exams. I mostly procrastinate because of the fear of doing bad and the pressure. That’s why I see studying as „work“ like ruby mentioned that has to be done even though I‘m actually I really curious person and found myself researching subjects/ topics that interested me for hours without breaks in m free time. It always starts to go downhill when I think „oh I have to do that for school/university“. I once had to read a book at school. I barely skipped through chapters and read only summaries. Years later I stumbled across it again and actually start reading it. It was really good and I only never gave it a chance before because like I said I felt like „I had to do it so therefor it’s no fun but a necessity . :/
Idk though bc I usually have to use my phone for studying bc everything is on schoology and sometimes I have to ask my ap group chats for help with stuff so I usually need my phone for studying. What works for me is blocking my time which ruby talks abt in a video bc if I think I need to finish x in an hour I’ll feel like I don’t want to click on a TH-cam video or something during that hour that I want to finish something in.
I somehow never liked pomodoro, and now I kinda understand why. I just get to the flow in 25mins and then I should have a break. Now I just study until the flow isn't there anymore, and then take a break or go to another subject. Aandd Anne with an E is the best
si si Samee.. i get into the flow only after i sit and study for like 20 min then my concentration increases but i would start to feel tired after like an hour or so..
You first need to understand the pomodoro, it's used to movivate you to get on the flow and stop procrastinating by setting a period of time you will be working on. It's your choise whether to take a break then the time comes or latter
i don't really use podomoro anymore but as far as i heard and know , it is used more to put you in the work flow by giving you the mindset and you only have to work for 25 minute and then you can take a break . Although when the time comes for you break , if you feel like working more , you can continue or if not ,you can rest for 5 minutes and try again ! Taking that 5 minute breaks depends on your mind state after those 25 minutes of worktime
I know that you said "I'll watch Anne with an E" just to prove that taking a break to watch an episode during studying will have disasterous effects, BUT OMG ARE YOU WATCHING ANNE WITH AN E CAUSE I LOVE IT
There is no "best way" to study. You have to find out which works for you. Even if enormous studies have been done on which methods are effective, in the end, it won't work if it does not fit you. How do you find out which method works? By studying. Lol. Just.do.it.
What works is honoring your body. If everyone say you need to run but you enjoy walk. No amount of forcing will make running beneficial for you. Just wu wei.
girl this came at the exact perfect moment? I've been studying for the past two weeks for an exam I have on february (I started with a lot of time because I know I tend to procrastinate a lot), and for the past week I've been taking "playful" breaks only to realize I end up getting SO distracted and lose half the day; my breaks consist of "lemme just check my phone for two secs", and then I watch two hours of youtube, go downstairs to play with my dogs for another two hours and so on and so forth. So you have absolutely no idea how helpful this was
This video really has some "out of the box" study tips. Unlike any other traditional study motivation videos. I hope it works out for me. Thanku for sharing with us. God bless u
I also think it's important to remember that this strategy works well for Ruby and it could indeed work with other people. But everyone studying needs to check in with themselves first and ask what works best for them before committing to a study/work routine. I personally get a lot of motivation and focus when I take breaks. Doing things that bring me enjoyment and bring me in alignment before working has a better result for me personally. And when I work coming from a starting place of joy/peace/ease/alignment/flow - as opposed to striving/results-oriented, the work quality and efficiency turns out to be 10x better. Everyone works differently. Ruby has a lot of influence, so please everyone just make sure you check in with yourself (your intuition, gut, etc) and see what works for you personally. :)
Exactly! Especially when I’m studying a subject that I don’t like for an exam, I feel much more ready to study if I take breaks that involve the things that I actually enjoy doing
Interesting video Ruby. I do think the subject and purpose of a study session needs to be taken into account. The Pomodoro Technique has shown that studying subjects which require enormous amounts of memorization (languages, science, etc) benefit substantially from regular, consistent breaks that might not be necessary say in studying humanities. Equally working on essays does not require as many breaks as effective exam revision, which again benefit from optimizing breaks. Bottom line - if memorization is a core aim of your study session you should consider shorter sessions with a definite delineation between them.
Jude Bell As a physics student I don’t do much memorisation so I benefit from Ruby’s style of study sessions. I take a break when I’m tired (though I make sure not to get exhausted) or when I’m really struggling and getting frustrated with a problem. But problems in math and physics do often rely on a sense of flow which is very important to follow until you either solve the problem or realize you need to try a different approach.
frank nades oh yeah I understand that. My subject doesn’t particularly require this technique either, I prefer Ruby’s method. But when I was learning Norwegian where there was so much to memorize I found shorter sessions made me retain much more vocabulary. Like I said, I think it depends on subject as well as purpose.
I am learning French and I don't just sit there and memorize vocab .I also do reading and writing (essays etc.). I tried pomodoros and I did not like it. The breaks are too short to even make a snack and when I did not need a break at all, they annoyed me because I'd just walk around the room and keep looking at the timer to see if I can finally start working again. It also makes study sessions seem never ending. I'd rather finish studying and then do what I want then feel like I am studying all day because you have to pick up studying again after the "break". For vocab, I have Anki set to only give me a certain number of words I find reasonable every day, so I don't need a timer, I will, at any given day have x new cards and x to review. For every else, including grammar, I like to go until I lose focus and/or need food, water, a shower etc. I don't need a timer to tell me that I "need" to take a break when I am in the middle of making Anki cards.
@@mchobbit2951 It’s not necessarily about whether you feel like you ‘need’ a break though - it’s about memory retention. The Pomodoro Technique has been proven to be effective when memorization is the key aim of a study session. If writing an essay was my study aim then I would not use this technique. It simply enhances the effect of spaced repetition if that is your goal. There is empirical evidence to back these claims up, it’s not an opinion.
@@mchobbit2951 I’m not assuming at all. In fact if you read my previous messages you would see that I don’t think the Pomodoro Technique is relevant where memorisation is not a factor. In fact I’ve wrote that twice.
Congrats in 400k, I also don’t like taking breaks because whenever I take breaks, i usually go over on my ipad and after that I won’t study anymore. Whenever I just keep studying I feel more focused which is weird since people often feel sluggish after studying long period of time but I feel perfectly fine.
girl i do the same thing!! i only take breaks when i really feel like i need them! often times, the longer i work without a break, the more motivated i get!
I've always been studying this way and it's amazing to hear you address it as well! My primary reason is the fact that I enjoy studying and I get into a flow that I can terribly interrupt by watching a tv show. My only exception is watching videos like yours that are in the same direction or my favorite taking a short nap. Wish you all a great day :)
When I was doing my A levels, I actually used to practice maths in my 'productive breaks' because it didn't require my memory and was just a practical application of what I already knew.
Literally changed my perspective of all that I do on a study break. You’ve have eliminated what study break “isn’t” about which really makes things so clear and straight. Insightful and lucid. Thank you ruby ❤️
I used to study like this and it wouldn't work, I just got stressed and anxious. Then I was diagnosed with ADD and they gave me a study plan made just for me: I have to take breaks (NOT ON THE PHONE) every 50 minutes. Now it's easier for me to understand and retain information. I just share this experience cause of course Ruby's method works but it may not work for everyone so don't stress or feel bad if you can't study like this. Remember everyone has a way and the important thing is to discover it and not force yourself to learn in a way that is not made for you :)♡
Do you always study in your bedroom or do you also like studying at a library or cafe? I've always wondered, since most of your study with me videos are in your bedroom 😁 love your videos 💕
How do you guys study in a cafe. Don’t you guys get distracted ??? And how long do you guys study in a cafe??? I just have never been studying in a cafe 😅
YOU'RE RIGHT! All of that always happen to me. Take unnecessary breaks, and after having watch a video or something I don't feel like studying anymore and makes it much difficult to study properly again. I'll try this way. Thank you!
I'm in my A Level year and have been finding studying a lot harder than I used to. This video is incredibly helpful, and really interesting to take a step back from the convential approach schools and society in general often encourage. Thank you so much for such a great video!
I have to say, working from home all this spring has enabled me to really get a system working. I’ll put 25 minutes into Forest, then give myself a five-minute break to go do a small chore. I make my work day half an hour longer to compensate, but no more than that. The thought of being paid really helps me keep my breaks in check, and saving all the fun stuff till the end of the day makes switching from work time to private time very easy.
I agree with doing things like going outside or crosswords rather than watching tv during breaks, but the research also says that positive reinforcement is the most effective way of shaping behaviours, rewards are not productive when they are things like chocolate or tv which you can’t really have in large quantities, because if you keep using them they will be detrimental over time, but if you are getting a cup of tea or going outside as a reward you are likely to be more productive during your study time, having said that I also think that everyone works differently!
I love how I randomly came across this video.. 2 hours into my "short" study break. Seriously, this video was really helpful and changed my perspective entirely
To me it's more about being passionate over what you do. If you truly enjoy what you do like Ruby does, finding time for productive breaks or keeping your motivation are details compared to enjoying the act itself. So the key is to identify your passions and work on them
Today was the first time in a very long time that I spent really the entire day studying/working on my papers. And it didn't feel like a chore at all, it was stressful because of deadlines, but other than that I really enjoyed it. I started the day by being on my phone which is not the best, but after I got something light eat and drink I started working right away. I didn't feel like I wasted a day, I didn't take any breaks until I was done (just about 13.5 hours) and then after I showered I played video games with my friends. Sure it's almost 3 am right now, but I really have never felt better about myself. Usually I take a break after half an hour to two hours and then I just never get pack to working. I end up binging entire TV shows. It's like this video was meant for me lol. Keep doing what you did today and you'll be good chief
Pomodoro really worked for me during online school this fall. There was a lot of reading, and I got bored and antsy really quickly. I actually found myself being more productive using the Pomodoro method because taking those frequent-ish breaks allowed me to reset and re-focus instead of staring blankly at the text I was supposed to be reading. It helped knowing that i only had to read the text for thirty minutes and then I could look at something I actually found interesting, and it made it easier for me to actually take in the information.
loved the video! during long study sessions i use the majority of the breaks to get house chores done, like i would study for 2 hours and then wash the dishes
One of my favorite things to do for a productive break is to do a chore, a hands-on task such as doing the dishes, while I listen to a podcast. I can't listen to a podcast while I do homework, so for me its play, and my brain is still engaged and taking in new information!
Oh my goodness....Ur so pretty and such a wise person for Ur age...and those editing skills damn🔥...the pomodoro technique is all the hype these days..but it never worked out for me..rather made me anxious about my time limit and broke my flow...thanks for this video...some things just don't work for some people..
All of this makes me think about those hard worker but not so brilliant classmates at high school and uni, that were constantly studying but in the end achieved less than others
this helped me so much!!!! :) i do now understand why pomodoro method seems to help everyone around me but not me, im more the "no break" type but always critisize myself for not doing pauses like the others ppl do. i used to feel guilty or as if im "not studiing the right way" but now i know better. Mindblowing and such a relief
This a really useful and helpful video full of really interesting practical information that totally makes sense and can be out into practice to good effect. It’s an absolute breath of fresh air from a so called “study tuber”. All too often study tube videos are just speeded up footage of people writing and giving a commentary of the work they’re doing/their schedule etc. Not very inspiring at all and can have the effect of making people feel dissatisfied with their own efforts but this is different. It’s both informative and helpful. Other study tubers take note and up your game!
I've never rewarded my studying because I thought it is weird to do so. But I also do not set strickt times for studying like "for one hour I study for my Russian test and in the next hour I work on my Slave Narrative presentation.". I try, of course to get everything done in a reasonable time but if I need longer or want to take longer for a task I just do it. At the end of the day, it is my life that should be productive and if it works out for me that way, that's fine. I use my "breaks" to mostly eat food or socialize. If I eat during studying, I either don't study or don't eat so...
When in breaks I usually try to write the next chapter of a creative writing project, continue doing exercises of my drawing book or some embroidery. It changes the subject, but I'm still doing something. It makes me feel refreshed for when I get back to studying.
Little did I know that on my break I was going to end up having a productive one and not a recreational one! Time to get going again! Here's a question for you- if something (quick) you need to do pops into your mind whilst you're doing something else, do you simply jot it down to deal with later or deal with it there and then before carrying on?
I know I’m not ruby , but speaking from my own experience personally I prefer to jot it down and do it later so that I don’t interrupt my concentration
I love Anne with an E! I just started the third season and I'm actually in love with it! I always thought that you might like it as well, it fits your lifestyle so perfectly!
"A break can also interrupt your sense of flow" this is really true and then its really hard to get back in that focused mode.. Thank you so much for making this video .I really found your advice helpful. its make day more productive
You genuinely changed the way I see breaks! I had already noticed that if I would take a break without really needing it, then I would struggle with procrastination. And I also wouldn't let me take a productive break when the time would come for it... Thank you Ruby 😊❤️
Hi Ruby thanks for this. I'm 40 years old and studying to become a mental health support worker. I can study up to 10 hours a day I'll stop for a coffee and a cigarette reflex on what I've done then get back into it. People told me I need to take a break every half an hour but I don't want too lol. I'm amazed about how much information I'm retaining and learning I love "school work" a lot I'm 4 weeks in and loving it. Your productive breaks are right up my alley and I'll keep continuing to use this method. A very validating video thanks so much!!!
This video helped me a lot. I always struggled with my breaks and now know the reason. I never understood the difference between "Productive" and "conventional" breaks between studies. "Conventional breaks" were ruining my study schedules. The second advice of continuing with the flow until you feel like taking break was so brilliant. Thanks.
I’m a medical student and I was the happiest , on top of the game and the best when only doing productive breaks. When I’m implementing conventional breaks while being in flow , forget it , I’m getting so passive and my whole motivation burns down 🙈 thanks for the video ruby 🥰♥️
This summary is more for myself to remember it, but read it if you’d like;) Basically, there are two types of breaks: productive breaks (though I’d rather call it recharging breaks ‘cause it makes me feel better calling it that way. Anyway, i digressed) and conventional breaks. Conventional breaks - more like free time (e.g., watching a movie, going out with family/ friends, etc.). Free time activities are best done once you’re done with your work. Productive (Recharging) breaks - recharge your energy. You use this break when you feel like you start feeling tired, losing focus, and your performance is getting worse. Anyway, breaks are important but make sure that you take breaks that makes you feel rested instead of worse (for example, I find that going on social media during my breaks makes me feel sluggish while just laying down on the floor makes me feel energized afterwards).
I find all of these ideas really interesting. I have problems with focus and productivity because of ADHD, and watching videos like yours and other study youtubers can be a conflicting experience sometimes because while I find the videos inspiring and can feel more motivated, I can also feel disheartened and terribly frustrated and disappointed in myself when I just can’t work in the same ways and inevitably fail. It’s taken me a lot of time to work on accepting that my brain’s just not quite wired the same. But this video is one of the first I’ve seen in a while that has felt accessible to me, like, these are some brilliant ideas that I can integrate too. Honestly thank you, and keep up the good work.
Such a great video! Here in Germany the end of term is approaching and so are exams and essays and all this stuff. So I’m really excited to try this. Thank you so much! And also the video is really well filmed I think. I love to chances of scenery! 😊
Yay, glad to be early this time. Ruby, thank you for posting videos, it means a lot because every morning, I actually want to get out of bed to do something. I used to lie in bed on my phone and not get much done but thanks to you, I have motivation now. Thank you!!:) From, Australia
This actually makes so much sense! I love that I can make this distinction between work and play before I start senior cycle at school. Thank you for this!
I'm so interested in this video I've been struggling with this so much! I always get too distracted and take wayy too long breaks in comparison to how much work I do and it makes me feel bad
You look so cool and aloof on the thumbnail but when the video starts your lovely sweet and warm nature is so evident. The contrast humours me 😂😂😂 Love your show- keep being you 😍😍😍
I really needed to hear this . It's really change my views on study breaks . Now I can understand why my study breaks ends up in procastination. Thanks a lot ❣️
This was extremely helpful, thank you so much Ruby! I tried the pomodoro sessions but for the breaks being every 25 minutes I found out that it didn't work very well for me. The tips you gave in this video are very useful. I tend to take a break everytime I finish or accomplish something, but today I tried a session where I only stopped when I really felt like taking a break (listening to my mind and body, as you recommend) and it worked out amazingly! I really appreciate how videos like these are backed up by theories and books you've read, as well as your own opinion and how you apply all of those things to your study sessions. I've been watching your videos for quite some time now, and I think that on TH-cam it can become hard to not be genuine, but from what I can see you seem honest and relatable in such a positive way. I'm not sure why I waited so long to tell you this, but here it is. I also really like the editing of this video, it's very fun! I hope you had a pleasant day :)
Thank you Ruby. You gave me a clear view of what I've been really confused at for a long time, which is the balance between focusing and resting. I always notice that if I do the pomodoro technique or other types of break techniques, I would always feel less motivated and more sluggish. On the other hand, when I do the continuous study session like what you do, I tend to be more productive, but I have this fear that I might be deteriorating my mental health, which can affect my long term study habits. This video clearly explained the fine line of what study breaks are. This is one of my fave videos of yours, Ruby. Thank you and more power (or knowledge lol) to you!
tbh, I always struggle so badly to go back to studying after every "mini" break, it is also what I am feeling exactly in this moment. And in addition to making me unproductive it makes me feel guilty because I can't seem to get my life back together after breaks.. so I totally get studying straight through without breaks and this will be my future plan as well. Thanks for talking about this, Ruby! Keep up the great work, you've always been a huge inspiration.
Oh, I really like this video, such an intelligent advice! And you doing exercise in the vid was just lovely 🙊😊 You said that you treat yourself after you got everything done for the day. It would be really interesting for me to see how you decide what is your work for the day and when you reach a point where you finish it. I, for myself, cant do that. Somehow I only write 3 to 4 to-dos down, but they still take the whole day and I am oftentimes not finished in the evening, so its quite exhausting. So it would be really interesting to see for me how you decide on which things you are working on for today! 😊
I find it super interesting listening you to talk about the psychology behind this, but I also find it really important to add that for certain people (especially those with adhd for example) breaks as a “reward” are really important and actually help more with productivity, so it isn’t a method that should be discredited...
Ruby, I'm a new subscriber from India and you're now my favourite TH-camr. Love your content so much and it's changing my life and helping me get life back on track. I also love the amount of research you put into your videos and how you support everything with facts and evidences.
Congrats for 400k❤️! You totally deserve it and I am so happy for you. In the last two years you have motivated me so much to work harder in school and also to be kind. I just want to say thank you for your inspiring content. PS: I just recently fell in love with the show Anne with an e and I am glad you like it too. It is not the type of show that I would usually watch but I can 100% recommend it.
This video was so helpful Ruby! I think it’s really great to make the distinction between breaks that actually recharge and recreational breaks! Thanks again for another great video! ✨😍
Thank you, Ruby. I am so glad that I have stumbled across this video while sluggishly 'taking a break'. What tends to happen 99.9% of the time is that I fall deep down into a pit of consumption when this happens, and then I end up procrastinating for much, much longer than I ever should have. The conventional 'breaks' had invariably lead me to unnecessary procrastination, and it makes me feel incredibly guilty, too! I also become incredibly sluggish and apathetic to complete tasks that I had originally intended for completion, and I fall even deeper into the underground that becomes even more difficult to pierce through to the surface again. Although, adrenaline has coursed my motivation again, thanks to this video, and I have become even closer to reaching the potential I had always aspired to be. I am still 14 years old, and there is still a whole lot ahead of me, but I think now is a good time to really get my game together. Even if you don't read this, I will still regard you as part of my inspiration to make things I could never imagine doing a reality. Okay, better get back to work. No more consuming, more creating!
I love Anne with a E. When I was young (I’m a bit older than probably most of your viewers but I enjoy studying so enjoy your vlogs!) I read Anne of Green Gables and it has always been one of my favourite books. I love Anne and what she represents. So enjoying this version on Netflix years later. X
That's why it is so important to have a job that you like. If you enjoy the process of working/studying, then you treat your break as a time for regeneration and getting ready to further work instead of avoid it 🙂
I've been watching your channel for around two years, I feel like you've improved a lot! It's very entertaining to watch your videos. You bring things to the point and add a bit of humour into it. Awesome improvement!
I personally really like scheduling my breaks. I usually finish a paragraph I was reading or writing and during my breaks I stretch or make a tea 👀 I personally need it cause sometimes it’s hard for me to concentrate if I have a lot to do and scheduling my breaks makes me wait until those breaks and study. But I get where you’re coming from and I agree, treating studying as work does make you not wanna do it… and rewards don’t work on me either.
Wow, my entire first year of uni I've been thinking my breaks were productive but they were actually being treated as rewards thus hindering my flow. Thank you for this informative video
I really appreciate Ruby making such a well thought-out video on this subject, but for me I would say that especially for other disabled/chronically ill/mentally ill people we really need the breaks. I think you just have to figure out what works for you but never feel guilty for knowing your limits and prioritising your health.
I agree but a productive study break still is a break, it's just not a conventional one, as Ruby calls it. I struggle with depressed and anxious feelings (I say feelings because I do not want to offend anyone who actually has a mental disorder) and productive breaks help me more than conventional breaks. Nothing makes me feel better than a flow state and conventional breaks would distract from that. I feel like watching TV or a movie only on Sundays after I've finished all my studying for the week is gives me more peace of mind because I don't feel stressed about about my academic schoolwork or violin studies. To me, reading, thinking, writing, studying, and playing violin is play not work because it makes me feel fulfilled and happy. People who don't understand people like me who are drawn to this type of lifestyle may think we have "no life" but I rather have my social life revolve around academic discussions or making music together rather than going to parties, excessively using social media like TikTok, or watching too much TV. Plus, I think the guilt you describe is what people feel when they're not living the life they want to live. Rather than replenish you, conventional breaks can steal time from the life you want from you. Sometimes mindless social media breaks, for example, don't actually make you feel happier, more fulfilled, or refreshed at all. I know I do this as a form of procrastination because sometimes I'm afraid to try to live the way I actually want to live because I might fail. I kept delaying starting my life because I was afraid of failure. Now, I'm not saying this to make anyine feel bad about their lifestyle. Reading and writing in your free time doesn't make you superior to someone who prefers to watch TV and write about that if you're someone who loves film and acting--that's just not me. This doesn't mean I'm particularly smart or intellectual, but I realized even if I may not be naturally smart, I want to live this way and go wherever trying and doing my best takes me because I feel happiest this way. So that's my two cents :)
N L I’m really glad for you that you are able to love that sort of lifestyle, but for a lot of people (such as those with severe illnesses) it is unsustainable and would result in health issues. My point was that for these people it’s okay to take breaks, because they need it to stay alive. It’s great that you’re well enough to do that, but my comment was for those with severe illnesses that prevent this.
This! honestly i think this is the most useful video somebody could watch if they want to stop procrastinating when studying! What i have found to be the best for me is to go to the library and not leave until what i need to do is done, no matter how long im in there for is could be hours, but it really works! I take productive breaks when im there to get coffee and stretch my legs (yes i do lunges in the library is a weird sight lol). Great video Ruby!!
I go to Oxford University and I’ve always taken ‘conventional’ breaks during periods of study. I know many peers who have tried adopting these methods of maintaining a consistent productive state during breaks by choosing reading over seeing a friend or having a coffee meet etc. But I’ve seen in some cases this to adversely effect optimal study time in the long term; it has perpetuated mental health difficulties through a need to ‘be the best’. So I think advocating that there is less value in conventional breaks is not the right message to spread. For many these types of breaks are important for mental health in stressful exam times.
I completely agree. For someone like Ruby to use this platform as a way to advocate not taking proper breaks such as seeing a friend or simply doing something fun that's not productive, but instead advocates to do something that's still technically study/work related, is very wrong to me.
I am studying with the Open University and i made the decision that it was to be a PART of the person i am and part of what i do, therefore i wasn't going to spend hours of my time stuck in my room studying to the detriment of time spent with my friends, Family , Social Life and Voluntary Work. I put in the hours suggested for the level of study i am at but spread it out through the week. I have my Tutorials but can contact my Tutor when i need and commit chunks of time to study like 2 hours one day, smaller sections when i am busier one day like half an hour of reading while i wait at an appointment or later in the day when i get home. I am flexible too when things go wrong and don't beat myself up if something hasn't been done one day. it is a case of balance.
i don't think thats the point of the video. she said the break should help you recharge and keep healthy, not as rewards. if you take conventional breaks to maintain your mental health aren't you basically following her advice
This is how I take breaks! I also put on study tube videos occasionally because usually they motivate me to keep going if I lose steam.. Also I just placed a hold on The Motivation Myth at my library 😊
The thing what you are not factoring in here is your unusual concentration time, most people don't have that, may be they have 20 mins to 45 mins concentration time then they have to have a proper break. Nobody can work past their concentration time, you just don't seem to have a limit.
Thank you for this video! I have been struggling a lot today due to lack of productivity (I have lately figured out that I work far better with a schedule) which eventually resulted in me having a complete mental breakdown. However, this video lifted my spirits and in a sense gave me another chance to turn around this day and make it productive.
If you couldn’t tell, I am 100% behind #renewannewithane
YES
What has been your favourite moment of Anne with an e over the 3 seasons?
I'm so upset about it I'm watching crack videos of season 3 ;)
Hurrah!
#renewannewithane has been all I’ve been thinking about since the news
Me: watches this during a study break
same hahaha
Same
at least you study 😥😂
@@yousername16 mood XD
Same lol
When I was younger, I used to study based on this idea of "flow" without ever realizing what it was. I could study 5 hours straight and not feel "tired." As I got further into university, people kept saying that one has to take breaks. It's proven fact that you can only remember something for so long before it declines so breaks are important. I didn't see that in myself, but thought well it's science right? So I started taking more breaks. I've noticed my productivity and my learning declined dramatically. Seeing this video reminded me of how I used to do school and that I also used to do "productive breaks" instead of the conventional ones. I don't think studying/learning methods are a one size fits all situation. People need to study in their own way. Everyone needs to find what works for them. Thanks for the video and sorry for the long response!
Omg same!
Same 🙋
So relatable. I miss the diligent person I used to be.
@@mariambarakat6057 study only prove that you can be fully productive a certain amount of time I think as an adult it's 40 minutes but for kids it's only 15 minutes and then your productivity decline and if you want to your productivity always be as the best you have to only make a break of 5 Minutes!! Nothing more.
Exactly what about Jade's video about concentration and that it declines after was it half to one hour?
my breaks are equal to her study sessions
Mood😂
greater than or equal to 😂
Same lmfao
Most people's breaks are lol
Lol I feel this
Tldw:
•Avoid having breaks as rewards because it will trick the mind into thinking that studying is daunting which is why we take breaks in the first place. (The sawyer effect)
•Only have a break when you need it, when you feel that you are performing worse.
*make sure that break will help you get back to study stronger. (Ex: exercise, drink tea, have some fresh air)
•you can have a sluggish break when you have finished everything.
Moods Moody what does “tldw” mean?
@@aud338 it means "too long didn't watch" :)
Actually I think that's a very damaging way to study. Everyone needs breaks. Taking yourself out of studying for just 30 minutes where you don't do anything except which an episode or listen to some music or anything fun, can be enough for you to feel more motivated for studying.
@@evemae5716 what I said above is just a small summary of the video, watch the full video to better understand why she and many other people (such as myself) have preferred this way. 😊
But I think it all comes down to the individual and the study method that works best for them.
*Laughs in pomodoro*
I do house chores in my study breaks. So after i’ve finished studying i have everything done including dull things like wiping boots without purposedly giving it extra time. Plus my body gets to move around if i’m doing chores
Ahhh. You guys are so productive.
Lana Wang i do the same! My study days are also my laundry days :)
Damn i wish i was this productive and dilligent 😪 sadly im extremely lazy and unmotivated
Me too! Makes me feel super productive 😍
Well I think this can mainly be applied to the type of studying you do. Your course is rather slow pace, hence you enjoy studying because You get to write essays, understand and reflect on things, read books etc. As a third year medical student I can tell you that is very different from e.g. having to learn crazy amounts of Anatomy vocabulary by heart in short amounts of time. If I didˋt take recreational breaks I would have no recreational/fun/free/time with friends or my boyfriend anymore. Also we have a system where we have examens every 3Weeks that you need to pass! Best wishes from Germany.
Same with Architecture.
tbf thats a good point
I don't agree. There is another youtuber who is a medical student at Cambridge... I can't remember her name.. Holly Gabrielle I believe.. she recommended the same thing as this video.. but it's okay to each his own. There is no rule. You do what suits you. And there's no harm in just trying out something new. We might just surprise ourselves.
em I can’t speak to medical school as I haven’t experienced that, but as someone in college studying math and the hard sciences, I have found that Ruby’s tips absolutely work the best for me, or else I just get distracted and stop studying. I do think it depends more on the person than their courses
Yes, I also believe that you can put that method down to the nature of Ruby's degree! She doesn't have to know 500+ slides by heart so she can go on for much longer.
I study business, modern languages and cultural studies and I see benefits in both techniques. Languages really require maximum focus (learning new vocab. etc.) and I mainly use the pomodoro technique for that. For marketing and any business module that also requires knowing hundreds of slides by heart I use that method as well. But for complex calculations or writing essays you have to give yourself time in order to get into it - obviously. But breaks are important no matter which type of revision you employ
For anyone who struggles with their screen time and productivity, the biggest tips i have are to keep your phone aside till lunch time. Make a commitment to yourself to do something other than looking at your phone till lunchtime. At lunch you can perhaps use it for a set amount of time
Another tip is to not look at the time while studying. This makes your brain think that you need a break cause you've been studying for an hour or half an hour or whatever.
Please try using these 2 tips, are definitely gonna help you a lot!
• Arshia thank you :) sounds good. I don’t have a problem with using my phone too often but I‘m always glancing at the time and start to think „ok, I studied 1-2h“ I can now take a break.
Yesterday I helped my little sister study chemistry. I didn’t look at the time and I also didn’t feel any pressure to do well since it’s not me that has to write the exam. Not feeling any pressure I noticed that I actually had fun studying since I didn’t study for school but for myself/ or rather my sister. I wish I could be more at ease when studying for my own exams. I mostly procrastinate because of the fear of doing bad and the pressure. That’s why I see studying as „work“ like ruby mentioned that has to be done even though I‘m actually I really curious person and found myself researching subjects/ topics that interested me for hours without breaks in m free time. It always starts to go downhill when I think „oh I have to do that for school/university“. I once had to read a book at school. I barely skipped through chapters and read only summaries. Years later I stumbled across it again and actually start reading it. It was really good and I only never gave it a chance before because like I said I felt like „I had to do it so therefor it’s no fun but a necessity . :/
Disagree, the pomodoro method helped me get through subjects I hated at school but had to revise for GCSE
THANK YOU !!
Idk though bc I usually have to use my phone for studying bc everything is on schoology and sometimes I have to ask my ap group chats for help with stuff so I usually need my phone for studying. What works for me is blocking my time which ruby talks abt in a video bc if I think I need to finish x in an hour I’ll feel like I don’t want to click on a TH-cam video or something during that hour that I want to finish something in.
It does help!
I somehow never liked pomodoro, and now I kinda understand why. I just get to the flow in 25mins and then I should have a break. Now I just study until the flow isn't there anymore, and then take a break or go to another subject. Aandd Anne with an E is the best
si si Samee.. i get into the flow only after i sit and study for like 20 min then my concentration increases but i would start to feel tired after like an hour or so..
You first need to understand the pomodoro, it's used to movivate you to get on the flow and stop procrastinating by setting a period of time you will be working on. It's your choise whether to take a break then the time comes or latter
i don't really use podomoro anymore but as far as i heard and know , it is used more to put you in the work flow by giving you the mindset and you only have to work for 25 minute and then you can take a break . Although when the time comes for you break , if you feel like working more , you can continue or if not ,you can rest for 5 minutes and try again ! Taking that 5 minute breaks depends on your mind state after those 25 minutes of worktime
I know that you said "I'll watch Anne with an E" just to prove that taking a break to watch an episode during studying will have disasterous effects, BUT OMG ARE YOU WATCHING ANNE WITH AN E CAUSE I LOVE IT
no, she said she had finished her work for the day so she wouldn't feel guilty about it ;)
@@beatricemiloiu9419 oh okay then 😂
Yesss she loves this series!!
💓💓💓💓💓😅
There is no "best way" to study. You have to find out which works for you. Even if enormous studies have been done on which methods are effective, in the end, it won't work if it does not fit you. How do you find out which method works? By studying. Lol.
Just.do.it.
Best comment 😌😌😌
What works is honoring your body. If everyone say you need to run but you enjoy walk. No amount of forcing will make running beneficial for you. Just wu wei.
girl this came at the exact perfect moment? I've been studying for the past two weeks for an exam I have on february (I started with a lot of time because I know I tend to procrastinate a lot), and for the past week I've been taking "playful" breaks only to realize I end up getting SO distracted and lose half the day; my breaks consist of "lemme just check my phone for two secs", and then I watch two hours of youtube, go downstairs to play with my dogs for another two hours and so on and so forth. So you have absolutely no idea how helpful this was
This video really has some "out of the box" study tips. Unlike any other traditional study motivation videos. I hope it works out for me. Thanku for sharing with us. God bless u
I also think it's important to remember that this strategy works well for Ruby and it could indeed work with other people. But everyone studying needs to check in with themselves first and ask what works best for them before committing to a study/work routine. I personally get a lot of motivation and focus when I take breaks. Doing things that bring me enjoyment and bring me in alignment before working has a better result for me personally. And when I work coming from a starting place of joy/peace/ease/alignment/flow - as opposed to striving/results-oriented, the work quality and efficiency turns out to be 10x better. Everyone works differently. Ruby has a lot of influence, so please everyone just make sure you check in with yourself (your intuition, gut, etc) and see what works for you personally. :)
Exactly! Especially when I’m studying a subject that I don’t like for an exam, I feel much more ready to study if I take breaks that involve the things that I actually enjoy doing
Interesting video Ruby. I do think the subject and purpose of a study session needs to be taken into account. The Pomodoro Technique has shown that studying subjects which require enormous amounts of memorization (languages, science, etc) benefit substantially from regular, consistent breaks that might not be necessary say in studying humanities. Equally working on essays does not require as many breaks as effective exam revision, which again benefit from optimizing breaks. Bottom line - if memorization is a core aim of your study session you should consider shorter sessions with a definite delineation between them.
Jude Bell As a physics student I don’t do much memorisation so I benefit from Ruby’s style of study sessions. I take a break when I’m tired (though I make sure not to get exhausted) or when I’m really struggling and getting frustrated with a problem. But problems in math and physics do often rely on a sense of flow which is very important to follow until you either solve the problem or realize you need to try a different approach.
frank nades oh yeah I understand that. My subject doesn’t particularly require this technique either, I prefer Ruby’s method. But when I was learning Norwegian where there was so much to memorize I found shorter sessions made me retain much more vocabulary. Like I said, I think it depends on subject as well as purpose.
I am learning French and I don't just sit there and memorize vocab .I also do reading and writing (essays etc.). I tried pomodoros and I did not like it. The breaks are too short to even make a snack and when I did not need a break at all, they annoyed me because I'd just walk around the room and keep looking at the timer to see if I can finally start working again. It also makes study sessions seem never ending. I'd rather finish studying and then do what I want then feel like I am studying all day because you have to pick up studying again after the "break".
For vocab, I have Anki set to only give me a certain number of words I find reasonable every day, so I don't need a timer, I will, at any given day have x new cards and x to review. For every else, including grammar, I like to go until I lose focus and/or need food, water, a shower etc. I don't need a timer to tell me that I "need" to take a break when I am in the middle of making Anki cards.
@@mchobbit2951 It’s not necessarily about whether you feel like you ‘need’ a break though - it’s about memory retention. The Pomodoro Technique has been proven to be effective when memorization is the key aim of a study session. If writing an essay was my study aim then I would not use this technique. It simply enhances the effect of spaced repetition if that is your goal. There is empirical evidence to back these claims up, it’s not an opinion.
@@mchobbit2951 I’m not assuming at all. In fact if you read my previous messages you would see that I don’t think the Pomodoro Technique is relevant where memorisation is not a factor. In fact I’ve wrote that twice.
Congrats in 400k, I also don’t like taking breaks because whenever I take breaks, i usually go over on my ipad and after that I won’t study anymore. Whenever I just keep studying I feel more focused which is weird since people often feel sluggish after studying long period of time but I feel perfectly fine.
Me too😊
Granger Productivity same!
I somehow really enjoyed watching this video!! I love the fact that you can see that you put a lot of effort in it by adding clips etc
I'm so glad to hear that! Thank you! xx
I love the fact that u said, "breaks should not be enjoyment but should be fulfillment"
This came as a LITERAL BLESSING outta complete nowhere.. THANK YOU SO MUCH!
girl i do the same thing!! i only take breaks when i really feel like i need them! often times, the longer i work without a break, the more motivated i get!
I've always been studying this way and it's amazing to hear you address it as well! My primary reason is the fact that I enjoy studying and I get into a flow that I can terribly interrupt by watching a tv show. My only exception is watching videos like yours that are in the same direction or my favorite taking a short nap. Wish you all a great day :)
this video confirmed what i was denying to myself - that i take breaks too often. this was such a helpful video
Thanks Ruby. Now I learned why the way I used to take study breaks actually ruined my productivity. Have a good week!
When I was doing my A levels, I actually used to practice maths in my 'productive breaks' because it didn't require my memory and was just a practical application of what I already knew.
Sindar Elf such a clever thing to do! Will implement this way of thinking in my study routine!
thanks for the advice)
Literally changed my perspective of all that I do on a study break.
You’ve have eliminated what study break “isn’t” about which really makes things so clear and straight. Insightful and lucid. Thank you ruby ❤️
I used to study like this and it wouldn't work, I just got stressed and anxious. Then I was diagnosed with ADD and they gave me a study plan made just for me: I have to take breaks (NOT ON THE PHONE) every 50 minutes. Now it's easier for me to understand and retain information.
I just share this experience cause of course Ruby's method works but it may not work for everyone so don't stress or feel bad if you can't study like this. Remember everyone has a way and the important thing is to discover it and not force yourself to learn in a way that is not made for you :)♡
Do you always study in your bedroom or do you also like studying at a library or cafe? I've always wondered, since most of your study with me videos are in your bedroom 😁 love your videos 💕
How do you guys study in a cafe. Don’t you guys get distracted ???
And how long do you guys study in a cafe???
I just have never been studying in a cafe 😅
YOU'RE RIGHT! All of that always happen to me. Take unnecessary breaks, and after having watch a video or something I don't feel like studying anymore and makes it much difficult to study properly again. I'll try this way. Thank you!
Lets just appreciate how much effort you put into this👏👏
I'm in my A Level year and have been finding studying a lot harder than I used to. This video is incredibly helpful, and really interesting to take a step back from the convential approach schools and society in general often encourage. Thank you so much for such a great video!
I don't know about anybody else but I'm really enjoying watching Ruby grow up!
I have to say, working from home all this spring has enabled me to really get a system working. I’ll put 25 minutes into Forest, then give myself a five-minute break to go do a small chore. I make my work day half an hour longer to compensate, but no more than that. The thought of being paid really helps me keep my breaks in check, and saving all the fun stuff till the end of the day makes switching from work time to private time very easy.
I agree with doing things like going outside or crosswords rather than watching tv during breaks, but the research also says that positive reinforcement is the most effective way of shaping behaviours, rewards are not productive when they are things like chocolate or tv which you can’t really have in large quantities, because if you keep using them they will be detrimental over time, but if you are getting a cup of tea or going outside as a reward you are likely to be more productive during your study time, having said that I also think that everyone works differently!
I love how I randomly came across this video.. 2 hours into my "short" study break. Seriously, this video was really helpful and changed my perspective entirely
My favourite kind of break is having a five minute chat with friends or family in the house
To me it's more about being passionate over what you do.
If you truly enjoy what you do like Ruby does, finding time for productive breaks or keeping your motivation are details compared to enjoying the act itself.
So the key is to identify your passions and work on them
Today was the first time in a very long time that I spent really the entire day studying/working on my papers. And it didn't feel like a chore at all, it was stressful because of deadlines, but other than that I really enjoyed it. I started the day by being on my phone which is not the best, but after I got something light eat and drink I started working right away. I didn't feel like I wasted a day, I didn't take any breaks until I was done (just about 13.5 hours) and then after I showered I played video games with my friends. Sure it's almost 3 am right now, but I really have never felt better about myself.
Usually I take a break after half an hour to two hours and then I just never get pack to working. I end up binging entire TV shows.
It's like this video was meant for me lol. Keep doing what you did today and you'll be good chief
Pomodoro really worked for me during online school this fall. There was a lot of reading, and I got bored and antsy really quickly. I actually found myself being more productive using the Pomodoro method because taking those frequent-ish breaks allowed me to reset and re-focus instead of staring blankly at the text I was supposed to be reading. It helped knowing that i only had to read the text for thirty minutes and then I could look at something I actually found interesting, and it made it easier for me to actually take in the information.
loved the video! during long study sessions i use the majority of the breaks to get house chores done, like i would study for 2 hours and then wash the dishes
my study motivation back when I did my A-levels was like: If you finish that essay you can go smoke a spliff
One of my favorite things to do for a productive break is to do a chore, a hands-on task such as doing the dishes, while I listen to a podcast. I can't listen to a podcast while I do homework, so for me its play, and my brain is still engaged and taking in new information!
Oh my goodness....Ur so pretty and such a wise person for Ur age...and those editing skills damn🔥...the pomodoro technique is all the hype these days..but it never worked out for me..rather made me anxious about my time limit and broke my flow...thanks for this video...some things just don't work for some people..
All of this makes me think about those hard worker but not so brilliant classmates at high school and uni, that were constantly studying but in the end achieved less than others
this helped me so much!!!! :)
i do now understand why pomodoro method seems to help everyone around me but not me, im more the "no break" type but always critisize myself for not doing pauses like the others ppl do. i used to feel guilty or as if im "not studiing the right way" but now i know better.
Mindblowing and such a relief
This a really useful and helpful video full of really interesting practical information that totally makes sense and can be out into practice to good effect. It’s an absolute breath of fresh air from a so called “study tuber”. All too often study tube videos are just speeded up footage of people writing and giving a commentary of the work they’re doing/their schedule etc. Not very inspiring at all and can have the effect of making people feel dissatisfied with their own efforts but this is different. It’s both informative and helpful. Other study tubers take note and up your game!
I've never rewarded my studying because I thought it is weird to do so. But I also do not set strickt times for studying like "for one hour I study for my Russian test and in the next hour I work on my Slave Narrative presentation.". I try, of course to get everything done in a reasonable time but if I need longer or want to take longer for a task I just do it. At the end of the day, it is my life that should be productive and if it works out for me that way, that's fine.
I use my "breaks" to mostly eat food or socialize. If I eat during studying, I either don't study or don't eat so...
This was the video that I want to find. And finally, I found it. thank you ruby.
You really give me that Hermione "out of the box" study type feel! I really respect that
When in breaks I usually try to write the next chapter of a creative writing project, continue doing exercises of my drawing book or some embroidery. It changes the subject, but I'm still doing something. It makes me feel refreshed for when I get back to studying.
Jane155 these are great ideas!
Little did I know that on my break I was going to end up having a productive one and not a recreational one! Time to get going again!
Here's a question for you- if something (quick) you need to do pops into your mind whilst you're doing something else, do you simply jot it down to deal with later or deal with it there and then before carrying on?
I know I’m not ruby , but speaking from my own experience personally I prefer to jot it down and do it later so that I don’t interrupt my concentration
theCharlotte23 yeah same!
I love Anne with an E! I just started the third season and I'm actually in love with it! I always thought that you might like it as well, it fits your lifestyle so perfectly!
5:45 LMAO THAT ZOOM WHY DID I LAUGH
Can everyone just take a moment to appreciate the amazing editing and creative shots and transitions that she took in this video?
"A break can also interrupt your sense of flow" this is really true and then its really hard to get back in that focused mode.. Thank you so much for making this video .I really found your advice helpful. its make day more productive
You genuinely changed the way I see breaks! I had already noticed that if I would take a break without really needing it, then I would struggle with procrastination. And I also wouldn't let me take a productive break when the time would come for it...
Thank you Ruby 😊❤️
We need more people like ruby
I think this is exactly the approach in need to studying coming into the third year of my degree. I'm glad I have found this channel.
Hi Ruby thanks for this. I'm 40 years old and studying to become a mental health support worker. I can study up to 10 hours a day I'll stop for a coffee and a cigarette reflex on what I've done then get back into it. People told me I need to take a break every half an hour but I don't want too lol. I'm amazed about how much information I'm retaining and learning I love "school work" a lot I'm 4 weeks in and loving it. Your productive breaks are right up my alley and I'll keep continuing to use this method. A very validating video thanks so much!!!
You don't know how much I need this video ... THANK UUU
This video helped me a lot. I always struggled with my breaks and now know the reason. I never understood the difference between "Productive" and "conventional" breaks between studies. "Conventional breaks" were ruining my study schedules. The second advice of continuing with the flow until you feel like taking break was so brilliant. Thanks.
I’m a medical student and I was the happiest , on top of the game and the best when only doing productive breaks. When I’m implementing conventional breaks while being in flow , forget it , I’m getting so passive and my whole motivation burns down 🙈 thanks for the video ruby 🥰♥️
Finding your channel was the best thing that happened to me 😍❤️❤️
Couldn't agree more!
This summary is more for myself to remember it, but read it if you’d like;)
Basically, there are two types of breaks: productive breaks (though I’d rather call it recharging breaks ‘cause it makes me feel better calling it that way. Anyway, i digressed) and conventional breaks.
Conventional breaks - more like free time (e.g., watching a movie, going out with family/ friends, etc.). Free time activities are best done once you’re done with your work.
Productive (Recharging) breaks - recharge your energy. You use this break when you feel like you start feeling tired, losing focus, and your performance is getting worse.
Anyway, breaks are important but make sure that you take breaks that makes you feel rested instead of worse (for example, I find that going on social media during my breaks makes me feel sluggish while just laying down on the floor makes me feel energized afterwards).
I find all of these ideas really interesting. I have problems with focus and productivity because of ADHD, and watching videos like yours and other study youtubers can be a conflicting experience sometimes because while I find the videos inspiring and can feel more motivated, I can also feel disheartened and terribly frustrated and disappointed in myself when I just can’t work in the same ways and inevitably fail. It’s taken me a lot of time to work on accepting that my brain’s just not quite wired the same. But this video is one of the first I’ve seen in a while that has felt accessible to me, like, these are some brilliant ideas that I can integrate too. Honestly thank you, and keep up the good work.
Such a great video! Here in Germany the end of term is approaching and so are exams and essays and all this stuff. So I’m really excited to try this. Thank you so much!
And also the video is really well filmed I think. I love to chances of scenery! 😊
Yay, glad to be early this time. Ruby, thank you for posting videos, it means a lot because every morning, I actually want to get out of bed to do something. I used to lie in bed on my phone and not get much done but thanks to you, I have motivation now.
Thank you!!:)
From, Australia
it's nice to see you doing a short but dense video, we need more of this kind Ruby, keep em comin
This actually makes so much sense! I love that I can make this distinction between work and play before I start senior cycle at school. Thank you for this!
I'm so interested in this video I've been struggling with this so much! I always get too distracted and take wayy too long breaks in comparison to how much work I do and it makes me feel bad
you are my motivation
when i receive ur notification i remember my books
You are wise beyond your years! Everything you said makes perfect sense. :)
You look so cool and aloof on the thumbnail but when the video starts your lovely sweet and warm nature is so evident. The contrast humours me 😂😂😂 Love your show- keep being you 😍😍😍
first I thought it's not an useful method for me personally but I'm happy that I decided to watch this video. thank you!❤
Glad to know that I'm not the only one with this perspective. I can't stop my flow just because it's time.
I really needed to hear this . It's really change my views on study breaks . Now I can understand why my study breaks ends up in procastination. Thanks a lot ❣️
This was extremely helpful, thank you so much Ruby! I tried the pomodoro sessions but for the breaks being every 25 minutes I found out that it didn't work very well for me. The tips you gave in this video are very useful. I tend to take a break everytime I finish or accomplish something, but today I tried a session where I only stopped when I really felt like taking a break (listening to my mind and body, as you recommend) and it worked out amazingly! I really appreciate how videos like these are backed up by theories and books you've read, as well as your own opinion and how you apply all of those things to your study sessions.
I've been watching your videos for quite some time now, and I think that on TH-cam it can become hard to not be genuine, but from what I can see you seem honest and relatable in such a positive way. I'm not sure why I waited so long to tell you this, but here it is. I also really like the editing of this video, it's very fun!
I hope you had a pleasant day :)
Thank you Ruby. You gave me a clear view of what I've been really confused at for a long time, which is the balance between focusing and resting. I always notice that if I do the pomodoro technique or other types of break techniques, I would always feel less motivated and more sluggish. On the other hand, when I do the continuous study session like what you do, I tend to be more productive, but I have this fear that I might be deteriorating my mental health, which can affect my long term study habits. This video clearly explained the fine line of what study breaks are. This is one of my fave videos of yours, Ruby. Thank you and more power (or knowledge lol) to you!
tbh, I always struggle so badly to go back to studying after every "mini" break, it is also what I am feeling exactly in this moment. And in addition to making me unproductive it makes me feel guilty because I can't seem to get my life back together after breaks.. so I totally get studying straight through without breaks and this will be my future plan as well. Thanks for talking about this, Ruby! Keep up the great work, you've always been a huge inspiration.
Oh my gosh who else was SOOOOO happy to find out that Ruby also watches AnnE. That show is pure gold.
Oh, I really like this video, such an intelligent advice! And you doing exercise in the vid was just lovely 🙊😊 You said that you treat yourself after you got everything done for the day. It would be really interesting for me to see how you decide what is your work for the day and when you reach a point where you finish it. I, for myself, cant do that. Somehow I only write 3 to 4 to-dos down, but they still take the whole day and I am oftentimes not finished in the evening, so its quite exhausting. So it would be really interesting to see for me how you decide on which things you are working on for today! 😊
I find it super interesting listening you to talk about the psychology behind this, but I also find it really important to add that for certain people (especially those with adhd for example) breaks as a “reward” are really important and actually help more with productivity, so it isn’t a method that should be discredited...
You young lady are a study advisor super hero
Ruby, I'm a new subscriber from India and you're now my favourite TH-camr. Love your content so much and it's changing my life and helping me get life back on track. I also love the amount of research you put into your videos and how you support everything with facts and evidences.
Congrats for 400k❤️! You totally deserve it and I am so happy for you. In the last two years you have motivated me so much to work harder in school and also to be kind. I just want to say thank you for your inspiring content.
PS: I just recently fell in love with the show Anne with an e and I am glad you like it too. It is not the type of show that I would usually watch but I can 100% recommend it.
It's so refreshing to watch your videos!! You're incredibly intelligent
This video was so helpful Ruby! I think it’s really great to make the distinction between breaks that actually recharge and recreational breaks! Thanks again for another great video! ✨😍
Thank you, Ruby. I am so glad that I have stumbled across this video while sluggishly 'taking a break'. What tends to happen 99.9% of the time is that I fall deep down into a pit of consumption when this happens, and then I end up procrastinating for much, much longer than I ever should have. The conventional 'breaks' had invariably lead me to unnecessary procrastination, and it makes me feel incredibly guilty, too! I also become incredibly sluggish and apathetic to complete tasks that I had originally intended for completion, and I fall even deeper into the underground that becomes even more difficult to pierce through to the surface again. Although, adrenaline has coursed my motivation again, thanks to this video, and I have become even closer to reaching the potential I had always aspired to be. I am still 14 years old, and there is still a whole lot ahead of me, but I think now is a good time to really get my game together. Even if you don't read this, I will still regard you as part of my inspiration to make things I could never imagine doing a reality.
Okay, better get back to work. No more consuming, more creating!
I love Anne with a E. When I was young (I’m a bit older than probably most of your viewers but I enjoy studying so enjoy your vlogs!) I read Anne of Green Gables and it has always been one of my favourite books. I love Anne and what she represents. So enjoying this version on Netflix years later. X
This video was so motivating Ruby and Congo on 400k!!!
That's why it is so important to have a job that you like. If you enjoy the process of working/studying, then you treat your break as a time for regeneration and getting ready to further work instead of avoid it 🙂
I've been watching your channel for around two years, I feel like you've improved a lot! It's very entertaining to watch your videos. You bring things to the point and add a bit of humour into it. Awesome improvement!
I personally really like scheduling my breaks. I usually finish a paragraph I was reading or writing and during my breaks I stretch or make a tea 👀 I personally need it cause sometimes it’s hard for me to concentrate if I have a lot to do and scheduling my breaks makes me wait until those breaks and study.
But I get where you’re coming from and I agree, treating studying as work does make you not wanna do it… and rewards don’t work on me either.
Wow, my entire first year of uni I've been thinking my breaks were productive but they were actually being treated as rewards thus hindering my flow. Thank you for this informative video
I really appreciate Ruby making such a well thought-out video on this subject, but for me I would say that especially for other disabled/chronically ill/mentally ill people we really need the breaks. I think you just have to figure out what works for you but never feel guilty for knowing your limits and prioritising your health.
I agree but a productive study break still is a break, it's just not a conventional one, as Ruby calls it. I struggle with depressed and anxious feelings (I say feelings because I do not want to offend anyone who actually has a mental disorder) and productive breaks help me more than conventional breaks. Nothing makes me feel better than a flow state and conventional breaks would distract from that. I feel like watching TV or a movie only on Sundays after I've finished all my studying for the week is gives me more peace of mind because I don't feel stressed about about my academic schoolwork or violin studies. To me, reading, thinking, writing, studying, and playing violin is play not work because it makes me feel fulfilled and happy. People who don't understand people like me who are drawn to this type of lifestyle may think we have "no life" but I rather have my social life revolve around academic discussions or making music together rather than going to parties, excessively using social media like TikTok, or watching too much TV. Plus, I think the guilt you describe is what people feel when they're not living the life they want to live. Rather than replenish you, conventional breaks can steal time from the life you want from you. Sometimes mindless social media breaks, for example, don't actually make you feel happier, more fulfilled, or refreshed at all. I know I do this as a form of procrastination because sometimes I'm afraid to try to live the way I actually want to live because I might fail. I kept delaying starting my life because I was afraid of failure. Now, I'm not saying this to make anyine feel bad about their lifestyle. Reading and writing in your free time doesn't make you superior to someone who prefers to watch TV and write about that if you're someone who loves film and acting--that's just not me. This doesn't mean I'm particularly smart or intellectual, but I realized even if I may not be naturally smart, I want to live this way and go wherever trying and doing my best takes me because I feel happiest this way. So that's my two cents :)
N L I’m really glad for you that you are able to love that sort of lifestyle, but for a lot of people (such as those with severe illnesses) it is unsustainable and would result in health issues. My point was that for these people it’s okay to take breaks, because they need it to stay alive. It’s great that you’re well enough to do that, but my comment was for those with severe illnesses that prevent this.
honestly i love your channel so much
This! honestly i think this is the most useful video somebody could watch if they want to stop procrastinating when studying! What i have found to be the best for me is to go to the library and not leave until what i need to do is done, no matter how long im in there for is could be hours, but it really works! I take productive breaks when im there to get coffee and stretch my legs (yes i do lunges in the library is a weird sight lol). Great video Ruby!!
I go to Oxford University and I’ve always taken ‘conventional’ breaks during periods of study. I know many peers who have tried adopting these methods of maintaining a consistent productive state during breaks by choosing reading over seeing a friend or having a coffee meet etc. But I’ve seen in some cases this to adversely effect optimal study time in the long term; it has perpetuated mental health difficulties through a need to ‘be the best’. So I think advocating that there is less value in conventional breaks is not the right message to spread. For many these types of breaks are important for mental health in stressful exam times.
I completely agree. For someone like Ruby to use this platform as a way to advocate not taking proper breaks such as seeing a friend or simply doing something fun that's not productive, but instead advocates to do something that's still technically study/work related, is very wrong to me.
I am studying with the Open University and i made the decision that it was to be a PART of the person i am and part of what i do, therefore i wasn't going to spend hours of my time stuck in my room studying to the detriment of time spent with my friends, Family , Social Life and Voluntary Work. I put in the hours suggested for the level of study i am at but spread it out through the week. I have my Tutorials but can contact my Tutor when i need and commit chunks of time to study like 2 hours one day, smaller sections when i am busier one day like half an hour of reading while i wait at an appointment or later in the day when i get home. I am flexible too when things go wrong and don't beat myself up if something hasn't been done one day. it is a case of balance.
i don't think thats the point of the video. she said the break should help you recharge and keep healthy, not as rewards. if you take conventional breaks to maintain your mental health aren't you basically following her advice
This is how I take breaks! I also put on study tube videos occasionally because usually they motivate me to keep going if I lose steam..
Also I just placed a hold on The Motivation Myth at my library 😊
The thing what you are not factoring in here is your unusual concentration time, most people don't have that, may be they have 20 mins to 45 mins concentration time then they have to have a proper break. Nobody can work past their concentration time, you just don't seem to have a limit.
Thank you for this video! I have been struggling a lot today due to lack of productivity (I have lately figured out that I work far better with a schedule) which eventually resulted in me having a complete mental breakdown. However, this video lifted my spirits and in a sense gave me another chance to turn around this day and make it productive.