Marshmallow Balance

As always, balance is the Key

In today’s fast-paced world, finding a balance between productivity and relaxation is a challenge many of us face. I believe scheduling both micro breaks and macro breaks can make all the difference.

Micro Breaks: Small but Powerful

Micro breaks happen more frequently throughout the week — like my Mondays and Fridays, which I dedicate to working out, blogging, watching Netflix, and unwinding for a few hours. These small pauses create a rhythm of rest that keeps me motivated and energized, even on busy days.

Macro Breaks: The Big Reward

Macro breaks are those larger moments of rest we give ourselves after completing major goals. For example, when I have a big deadline like submitting a portfolio, I dive in with full focus and effort. After I finish, I reward myself — maybe by booking a flight to a quiet place to recharge. This bigger “breathing window” helps me celebrate the hard work and reset for the next challenge.

Inspired by Don’t Eat the Marshmallow Yet

This approach reminded me of Don’t Eat the Marshmallow Yet, a legendary childhood book about delaying gratification for greater happiness and success. It teaches that sometimes saying “not yet” to immediate pleasure helps us achieve bigger goals.

In this light, every break—whether macro or micro—is like a small marshmallow that keeps us moving toward a larger purpose. But if you give yourself a bigger marshmallow than you’ve earned, you risk losing the motivation to keep striving for the greater reward.

It’s about finding the right dose of dopamine to stay on track—enough to keep going, but not so much that you lose the drive to pursue something greater.

“The ability to delay gratification is the master skill that leads to success.”

Don’t Eat the Marshmallow Yet by Joachim de Posada

Give Yourself Credit

I believe many of us practice this balancing act, even without realizing it. Simply recognizing the value of these breaks adds motivation and a sense of accomplishment.

So to all the readers who’ve been grinding hard — take pride in your efforts and enjoy those well-earned breaks. You deserve it.