Class is officially starting back tomorrow and I am so ready to get back into the swing of things. I am someone who thrives on having a routine and being productive, but it’s easy to take on too much and burn out… especially at the beginning of a new year. Today I’ll be sharing my personal tips for how to survive the end of winter break whether you’re back at work and already tired or a college student just starting back.
1. Ease into your routine.
Instead of going from sleeping all day to working all day, I like to readjust to my routine. A few days before class, I start setting my alarm earlier. I let myself hit snooze and sleep in if I want, but it helps my body get used to earlier wake up times. Along with that, I like to make sure I’m going to bed around the same time that I will be in the school year.
2. Choose a “uniform”.
I talked about choosing a uniform in my back to school tips post earlier this year, and I think it’s so helpful! I definitely don’t mean you should wear the same thing every day (but if you want to – more power to you!). Instead, I like to think of a few favorite outfit combinations that I know I can turn to. I own so many solid color long sleeve tops, but they are the best for these situations. You just pair your top with a few layers like my black vest and favorite scarf, and you have a put together outfit that required absolutely no thinking.
3. Start a new show or podcast.
This tip may seem unexpected – why start something new when you’ll need to be productive?! I really find that small things like starting a new show gives me something to look forward to. If you view back to school season as a stressful time instead of a refreshing time, find a way to make it enjoyable. I create a nighttime routine when I’m watching a new show, like lighting a candle and cleaning my room before. When I associate the show with that calm time, I know I have something chill to look forward to even on the most stressful days. I just finished “You” and I’m currently watching: The X Files!
4. Buy office supplies you really love.
I am a HUGE notebook lover. Like, I always have at least 3 in my bag. Even if you don’t have to buy new supplies for class, you can use this as a chance to refresh what you are using or start doing something new. If you’ve always wanted to bullet journal, this is the perfect time to start!
5. Make plans you can look forward to.
Let’s be real: winter break can be amazing or it can be awful. So can going back to school. So, if you’re already dreading the thought of being back at school – hang in there! While you have time and the ability to make clear plans, schedule in something you can look forward to. Whether that’s a weekly lunch with a good friend, time at your Church, or even time alone at your favorite coffee shop – write it down! You’ll be more likely to do it, and whenever you look down at your planner/phone, you’ll be reminded that you’re finding little ways to joy.
So, has school started back for you yet? Do you have any tips that I should know?!
xoxo, Cecilia
