The duality of this approaching season is remarkable to say the least. December brings not only colorful lights and cozy feelings, but also brings long hours of studying and testing. It’s a month that tests not only how much eggnog you can drink, but how long you can sit in the same position rereading chapters from a textbook. As students, it is very important for us to overcome the whiplash of these changing seasons and use our anticipation of the holidays as our motivation to focus on academics first. As tempting as it is to skip straight to the fuzzy pajamas, pushing through now means finally being able to enjoy a guilt free break!
The key to making this chaotic month feel a little more magical is to stop seeing studying and holiday joy as opposites. Instead, make them cute moments. Nothing says “locked in” like lighting a cinnamon candle while reviewing your notes on glycolysis or turning your essay writing into a cozy little coffee shop study date with yourself. Romanticizing everything, especially doing schoolwork, is a great way to keep morale up.
When things get overwhelming, as they usually do, remind yourself that the holiday break is waiting for you with open arms and a warm blanket. Your future self is already cheering you on from the other side of the semester, laughing with hometown friends and sipping on hot chocolate. Use your memories of past winter breaks, late-night talks, lazy mornings and family traditions, to recharge your stamina for studying.
Allowing yourself little spoilers of what holiday break is going to feel like. Think of them as teasers for the full seasonal experience. Give yourself time to reflect on your holiday plans. Take a little Pinterest break and scroll through Christmas baking ideas (s’mores cookies and peppermint brownies!), holiday outfits or gift-wrapping inspo. Relax while listening to Christmas tunes (or dance a little, who cares!). Write down a mini bucket list for all the things you want to get done during break. These little glimpses will not pull you away from your work, but remind you why you are pushing through. A taste of holiday bliss can be the perfect way to motivate you and give you a much needed mental reset.
More so than any other time of the year, December may be chaotic, but its also beautiful. It’s a month filled with overlapping responsibilities, emotional highs and lows and moments that test your patience and endurance. December proves that you’re capable of handling stress while still finding joy in it. Take time to recognize how far you’re come despite everything on your plate. So study hard, treat yourself well, and have a very happy holiday! You deserve it!