Many psychology students explain their choice of study by a desire to help, to understand how humans function, and to contribute. This is very often the first answer given during motivation and selection interviews for psychology programs. This deep motivation can be described as a vocation. However, care must be taken not to turn it into a sacrificial myth.

Self-knowledge is often presented as a key to happiness, effective guidance, and personal fulfillment. But what does it really mean to “know yourself”? And how can psychology help us achieve it?

The back-to-school or back-to-work season often comes with new projects, renewed organization, and getting back into study or work routines… but also with a certain mental load, stress, or the fear of not being "good enough." What if we used this pivotal moment as an opportunity to take care of ourselves using some insights from psychology ? Psychology isn’t just a theoretical discipline it’s also a powerful tool for navigating transitions and periods of change.

No, taking a break doesn’t waste time… on the contrary.“The human brain is like a battery: the more you use it, the more it needs recharging.”In a world that glorifies productivity and treats “efficiency” as a mantra, taking a break is often seen as a waste of time. Among students, this belief is even more ingrained: “study nonstop,” “review until midnight,” “never let up.” But science is unequivocal: an exhausted brain doesn’t work better—it works poorly.

“Building healthy self-esteem means being both demanding and kind to yourself.” – Christophe André How many students push themselves to the limit, convinced that sacrificing their well-being is the price of success? And how many parents or schools—often unintentionally—reinforce this belief? Today more than ever, learning to balance academics and personal life is not a luxury. It’s a vital skill that must be cultivated from a young age.