Essays are important, at some colleges more than others. Make an effort with them (there are stories of good essays thrown together at the last minute. You’re not likely to hear from all those students who wrote at the last minute and did not do well though.)
I’m going to link these supplemental essay tips here, because they address some points that have already been made. For the most selective schools, it’s not just the personal statement that will make a difference. The supplements are really important. Supplemental essay tips (plus the COVID question on the CA)