Spring break has been way too short. The pandemic has caused some schools to cancel spring break altogether instead of extending winter break for one more week back in January. Whether you are following the quarter system or the semester system, by now everyone is burnt out. In terms of academics and scheduling, what can we do to get back on track?
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Get yourself a planner
I didn’t have a planner myself for fall and winter quarter at Northwestern. During spring break, I finally got one and it has been a life-changer. Write down not just your homework that is due, but also everything else that you are planning to do that day, whether it be going on a walk or a run, going to the gym, etc. Nothing has been more satisfying than crossing things off my checklist.
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Start a morning routine
Creating habits is important for mental stability. I try to wake up at the same time each morning, make myself some coffee, and go for a morning jog. Whether it be stretching, yoga, or journaling in the morning, a good start helps you focus better.
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Get outside
Zoom fatigue has been real. Our eyes are constantly staring at a screen. We all need a break at least once a day for some fresh air that we lack because we no longer have in-person classes. Taking time out of the day to get outside can be great medicine!
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Photoshoot
A lack of in-person classes has not only taken our ability to be more physically active but also our excuse to dress cute. We usually just get up and turn on Zoom, turning off our video and microphone, and sometimes even listening to lectures on our phones. However, the nice weather has prompted our desire for dressing nicer. It boosts our self-confidence and helps us feel better about ourselves.
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Find a new study space
Being cooped up in dorms or your house all day for zoom doesn’t help your attention span. Find a new space to study, whether it be your school’s student center, outside porch areas, et cetera can be so helpful in re-igniting your creativity and productivity.
Coming back from break is hard, but hopefully, these tips and tricks will help you overcome your post-break lethargy and get back into the grind!