Winter break is rapidly approaching...after all of those papers, exams, presentations, and projects, of course. The excitement is uncontainable and you can't wait to finally sit back and relax. Unfortunately, many of us hold winter break to a much higher standard in our expectations, when the reality of it is that it's great but far too long.

Going to a great party in the city for New Year's Eve with all of your friends:

Expectation:

Reality:

Being really excited to eat real food and to try all of those Pinterest recipes you pinned throughout the semester.

Expectation:

Reality:

When your New Year's resolution is to get back into shape and go to the gym more.

Expectation:

Reality:

Not having to worry about any school work, or papers, or presentations, or exams. Enjoying a stress-free environment.

Expectation:

Reality:

Thinking that you will unpack and keep your room nice and clean.

Expectation:

Reality:

Getting to spend more time with all of your home/high school friends:

Expectation:

Reality:

Spending time with your family for the holidays:

Expectation:

Reality:

Thinking you are going to be so productive. Maybe you will get an internship or a job.

Expectation:

Reality:

Getting to spend more time with your parents and siblings.

Expectation:

Reality:

Being able to really enjoy the cold weather. You might even go as far as to go skiing.

Expectation

Reality:

Thinking that you're going to catch up on all of the sleep you lost during the semester so you can return for the spring refreshed and ready to go.

Expectation:

Reality:

Going on a really great vacation in an amazingly warm climate that is beautiful and tropical.

Expectation:

Reality:

Putting yourself on a budget so that you can save all of the money you acquired from family members over the holidays to last you throughout the semester.

Expectation:

Reality:

Deciding you're going to start the spring semester on a good note by reading all of your syllabi and ordering your textbooks.

Expectation:

Reality:

Realizing that winter break is practically over and you have to return back to school where you will be sleep deprived, anxious, and stressed all over again.

Expectation:

Reality:

Whether you are planning on going on vacation, working, preparing for the spring semester, or studying for a standardized test (like the LSAT's or the CPA) take a minute and realize that you will most likely end up on your couch, or a friend's couch, binge watching Netflix. Soak it all up while you can before you have to return to school for a semester filled with tears, stress, anxiety, and a whole lot of work.