Can’t Drive on Empty
April 21st, 2025
Writer: Eve Collon
Editor: Sophie Graff
When my fuel gauge blinks yellow and indicates that I’m low on gas, I tend to test the limits. The limits often seem like a suggestion, until I find myself on the side of a back road with an empty gas tank, feeling both desperate and foolish. It isn’t until I run out of gas that I have to scramble to rely on others for help, because by then, it is too late to fix the problem myself.
Whether it comes as a shock or not, our lives follow this pattern to a tee. From simultaneous third-person observation and first-person experience— especially at a competitive school with a buzzing social atmosphere— it can almost feel as though pausing to take a breather doubles as a setback. The common “what ifs?” flood my head when I lean toward taking my foot off the gas. What if I miss out on fun memories by not going out? What if I don’t study a certain topic enough to get a good night's sleep? When I stop to think about it, the answer to these questions is simple. If I don’t put myself first, it isn’t possible to grow in the first place because I will lack the fundamentals to do so.
I’ve come to realize that recognizing when to veer off the metaphorical road of life doesn’t insinuate weakness- it demonstrates strength through maturity. Life, as we know, isn’t always fair. And while it would be convenient, the warning signs of burnout don’t always flash on the horizon. So, if we can’t always physically see the signs to pull over, how do we learn to mentally bring ourselves to a halt?
Slowing down isn’t a black-and-white concept, but rather one filled with complexity. It can look different for everyone, because the reasons that we all need to pause aren’t always the same. Whether it is deep breathing, turning your phone on Do Not Disturb, or staying in on the so-called “best night of the year,” do what will lay a tranquil blanket over the chaos in your life.
For me, sometimes that means having a selfish day alone in bed, letting the roaring sound of the outside world fade into background noise. Other days, refueling my life might mean going to a Pilates class to boost endorphins. Taking a break doesn’t always need to be identical to the last occurrence of rest you had. That’s the beauty of being on your track: you can tailor your rest to fit your current position. Whatever your path looks like, I encourage you to follow it as designed. Despite it appearing easier, avoid taking the shortcut that might lie ahead.
Most importantly, remember that life is a marathon and not a sprint. Without taking breaks to readjust your strategies for success, you will burn out long before enjoying the satisfaction of the finish line. Give yourself grace and patience, even when you don’t necessarily see fit. This will help to refuel your head and your heart- two engines that keep you going. Take your foot off the gas and coast when you need to, but remember that sometimes, the most powerful action is simply to stop before you’re running on empty.
