With Thanksgiving break approaching and the fall semester coming to a close, we are all most likely going to be taking a much-deserved break. For me personally however, after taking a break for the responsibilities of the normal week, I find it extremely challenging to get back into the flow. Here are 5 ways I get myself back into routine after a break:
1. Move your body: Personally, I tend to fall into bad habits when I start skipping my exercise. Moving my body whether it be at the gym, a walk, or a Pilates class is super helpful in getting me motivated and in feeling more alive throughout the day. Starting off your day with something productive is ultimately how you set the mood for the rest of your day.
2. Do one thing you have been avoiding: As of finals week and being a busy premed student, I easily let things pile up. I find when I do this however that the list becomes overwhelming so fast. Rather than waiting for things I don’t really want to do, I find it a lot more productive to check one thing off the list, even if it was something simple. That’s one less thing I must think about later. It also spares me the stress of last-minute tasks.
3. Dress to impress: This might not apply to everyone, but for me personally, when I get dressed up in the morning instead of my usual sweatpants and sweatshirt i feel way more ready to take on the day. Confidence in your appearance plays a way bigger role than you’d think in your abilities to accomplish what you want throughout the day. If you look the part, you will feel the part!
4. Pick a few things you do throughout the day for yourself that feel good: For me, I love iced coffee. When I want to get a lot done and maintain a positive attitude throughout the morning, I either make myself or pick up a cute little drink. I also love having an hour in the day to call my friends and debrief everything that is going on in our busy lives. Picking one or two of these things will keep you grounded with yourself and not feel overwhelmed with the work-related stuff throughout the day.
5. Stay away from strict rituals: following a strict diet or a strict exercise routine has never ended good for me personally. Doing the same thing every day may seem smart if you want to see results fast, but ultimately you will get bored. It’s inevitable for me, if I overdo the same thing too much, I am way more prone to losing interest and therefore losing progress. Switch up your routine a little bit every day. It will keep things interesting!