There are a few phrases that every college student longs to hear, “class canceled” or “free food” are some of the most popular. But we all have a favorite, Winter Break! Winter break is the four-week vacay all desperately long for throughout fall quarter, and it’s almost here. Heading home for the holidays, dressing in rain boots and scarves and eating every yummy holiday treat in sight are just a few of the best parts of winter break. But with all the special events happening around this time of year, it’s easy to lose motivation. Unfortunately, we all know winter quarter will very quickly (and rudely) hit you like a ton of bricks.
It may sound counterproductive, but if you are able to hone your skills and get some things done during break, it makes the holidays all the more enjoyable. If you haven’t just sat around waiting for the sugar cookies to get out of the oven or for your high school friend to text you back so you can get coffee, you’ll feel so much better once all the December chaos is over.
Don’t let me fool you, I’m the biggest offender when it comes to being lazy when we have a break from school BUT there are ways to get around feeling totally out of it when you return to school in January. Here are a few ways to help you stay productive during your winter break!
Get your 2018 planner prepped
Shopping for a new planner can be fun and inspire you to kick off the new year in an organized and fashionable fashion. You can look at this as a win-win, you get to shop and get organized at the same time!
Help around the house
As I get older, I realize how enjoyable holidays are for some, but how stressful they can be for others. If you can lend a hand to your parents, grandparents, friends or neighbors during this stressful time it will not only help them, but you’ll feel pretty good about it too.
Try a new workout plan
Some people love to run, some love to lift weights and some love to do yoga! If you’re not sure, winter break is a perfect time to try something new! Grab a friend and try a workout you’ve never done before (there’s hundreds on Pinterest for every part of your body) or try a class at your local gym. (most offer your first session free!) Getting out and moving can help counteract that winter break hangover, and put you in a good place for a new habit in the new year.
Clean out your closet
Every year I come back to school with so much new stuff and an armful of new clothes and wonder how I’m going to find a place to put everything. Cleaning out your closet over break will help make room for all the new styles you’ll be adding to your wardrobe, as well as make a donation to your local clothing bank. Another win-win!
Stay in a routine
This is the most important tip of all! Getting back into a regular sleeping, workout, homework, and coffee schedule usually takes me at least a week once I get back from winter break, so trying to keep up a routine while you’re home is a MUST! Waking up at the same time (preferably not 2 P.M. every day), going for a walk or run, spending time away from your phone, and preparing your meals around the same time each day can help your body and mind stay in rhythm and make the transition back to college boss babe that much easier.
Hey HC chapters, let us know if you have any tips to get through winter break productively! Leave your tips in the comment box below.