With Thanksgiving break concluding and winter break approaching, it's going to be difficult to remain productive when you won't have any homework to worry about. To keep from feeling unproductive and wasting away your precious break, here are 10 suggestions to stay preoccupied.
1. Make a to-do list
The main way to keep your mind on the right track is to write a to-do list. By doing this, you can keep track of what you have done and what you still have to do, ensuring that you will be at least somewhat productive. Having a checklist will also give you the feeling that you're being productive.
2. Turn your phone on do not disturb
There's a lot happening in the world you miss out on when you're constantly looking down at your phone. To prevent this, put it in your pocket, turn it on airplane mode, do whatever you have to do, and look up for once. You might be surprised to see what's going on in the outside world.
3. Disable websites to prevent yourself from getting distracted
Utilize apps that prevent you from wasting all your time caught up on social media websites, such as the Self Control App. It won't kill you to log off of Facebook for an hour or stop tweeting for a day, and even if it would, you won't be able to access them if you tried.
4. Find books to read
Reading isn't only for educational purposes. Check out your local library or bookstore, use iBooks or a Kindle to discover a book. Perhaps take up suggestions from someone you know or read a classic. You may be surprised to learn you enjoy reading and you'll be educating yourself too.
5. See a movie
There are plenty of movies being released every month, yet you never go to the theater to see any. Take a step out of your comfort zone and go into the theater blind. Who knows? You could enjoy the movie. You could also always research some movies you may have already wanted to see or realize there's something premiering that caught your attention.
6. Set goals
One way I stay motivated is by setting goals. Whether it be to exercise more, check a TV show off of my list of things to watch, or reach out to an estranged friend, creating goals help me to feel productive as well as encourage me.
7. Pick up a new hobby
From drawing to cooking to karate, there are so many options for you to choose from. Don't let napping or binge watching become your latest hobby this upcoming break.
8. Teach yourself how to do something
There's always something that you have yet to learn. I'm sure there's something you've dreamt of learning how to do. For example, I have been teaching myself to learn how to write left handed and find myself practicing when I get bored or distracted. Over winter break, you could learn how to ice skate, ski, or build an igloo.
9. Go to a museum or art exhibit
Explore a nearby art exhibit or museum, although it may not necessarily be "your thing." You could always turn it into a social outing with friends or family, and it would certainly make it more entertaining as well.
10. Take an online course
Even though you may have just finished up with school for the time being, it doesn't hurt to take a fun or simple class. You never know, you might end up enjoying it, and it could count towards your degree or general electives.
