Now that we’re in the home stretch for approaching break, the holiday season is coming up right behind us. No student is looking forward to taking finals (with the exception of taking them to get home sooner); instead, they look at different methods of procrastination. I most definitely am living proof of that (seeing as I’m writing this article instead of working on an 8-10 page paper), which is never a bad thing. Singing loud for all to hear may not be the best idea during quiet hours (sorry, Will Ferrell), but here are some worthy substitutions that won’t make you a Grinch by the time finals roll around!
1. Change your clothes, change your outlook!
It’s a simple way to brighten up your day, even with the South Bend permacloud. Get into the Christmas spirit by wearing greens and reds, or even an “ugly” Christmas sweater/shirt! The bookstore has adorable and hilarious tops, and on a college kid budget, they’re absolutely worth the purchase! If not, then there’s always Target.
2. Watch Christmas-themed movies!
ABC Family’s 25 Days of Christmas just started a few days ago and it’s already filling most of my friends’ snapchat stories (not a bad thing at all). Hallmark has some super cheesy ones, and yet they always make you tear up by the time the next movie is playing. Take a break from studying, pop some popcorn, wear your flannel pajamas, and curl up on the futon watching a 2 hour presentation of Christmas. Here’s the ABC Family line-up in case you need to plan your procrastination ahead of time!
3. Do a white elephant/Secret Santa exchange!
Get your group of friends together for a night in and exchange hilarious, yet thoughtful, presents! You don’t have to go all out like Michael from the Office and dish out a $400 video iPod, but a simple $5-$10 gift is just as meaningful! It’s the thought that counts, as much as we love Michael Scott’s philosophy on the price tag ;)
4. Make a holiday meal together!
Similar to Friendsgiving, this gathering is a memorable time to share great laughs, even better food, and just an overall fun experience with some/most of your closest friends. These cherished memories will be talked about even after the g-word (because I as an s-word deny that I have to g-word). Although this one doesn’t have a creatively punny name, there’s no need to name it. Listening to Christmas music, sharing food/sweets, and spending time with each other are the most important elements in celebrating the Christmas spirit.
5. Decorate the room!
Whether it’s been decorated since before Thanksgiving or you’re still searching for the perfect kind of festive lights, it’s a great study break to take advantage of and focus more attention on! Organizing the decorations themselves and planning where to place them is enough hard work as it is, but once the task is complete, you’ll smile every time you walk into the room. A plus for the lights: you can keep them up all year round to constantly brighten your day ;) (pun intended).