The weeks after Thanksgiving and before winter break are… something else. It’s that stretch where all you can think about is winter break, your planner is screaming at you, and every group chat suddenly turns into a social obligation you didn’t sign up for. Basically, it’s chaotic—but it doesn’t have to break you.
Here’s how to navigate this semi-magical, semi-terrifying time:
1. Expect Chaos (And Laugh at It)
Between papers, projects, and exams- your life might feel like a spinning snow globe of deadlines. Accept it. Laugh at it. Doom-scrolling breaks are totally acceptable. A little humor goes a long way when your brain is fried at 10 p.m. on a Tuesday.
2. Social Life: Pick & Choose Wisely
Holiday parties, study groups, Secret Santa… you can’t do it all. Focus on events that make you happy or actually useful (study sessions that won’t kill your GPA count). It’s okay to say no—your couch deserves some quality time, too.
3. Caffeine and Comfort Foods Are Essential (But Moderation is Key)
Coffee, hot chocolate, easy meals—yes, all the things. But remember, your body and mind also need sleep and hydration. Your soul will survive better if you mix a little balance with your sugar and caffeine intake.
4. Self-Care Isn’t Optional
Even five minutes of a skincare routine, a walk outside, or a FaceTime chat with a friend counts. The small things keep you grounded and remind you there’s life outside your pile of assignments.
5. Academic Focus Without Freaking Out
Yes, deadlines are looming. Yes, exams are coming. But don’t let them dominate your entire life. Break things into manageable chunks, and reward yourself for progress—even if it’s just surviving one assignment without crying.
6. Embrace the Festive Fun
Playing around in the snow, campus lights, and sweet treats exist for a reason. Let yourself enjoy them. You deserve a little joy amidst the chaos. Just don’t feel guilty if your “festive spirit” sometimes looks like binge-watching shows in pajamas instead of attending parties.
7. Look Forward to Winter Break
Having something to look forward to—whether it’s going home, traveling, or just sleeping for a week—makes the chaos more manageable. Keep that little light at the end of the tunnel in mind, and celebrate your wins along the way.
The weeks between Thanksgiving and winter break are a weird mix of stress, fun, and caffeine highs. It’s messy, it’s chaotic, but it’s also a time you will laugh about 10 years in the future. Survive, laugh, plan, and treat yourself—you’ve got this.