Adjusting to a new living environment over winter break is a challenge for many students. You may be trying to maintain your own schedule and independence, managing relationships, or just missing the routine and community of school. This may not be easy, but it can become more manageable with tips to help you adapt and enjoy your break.
Define Your Expectations
If you have eagerly awaited this time off, there may be pressure to make the most of it. Or, the endless amount of free time may feel overwhelming after a busy semester. One way to manage this is by setting some intentions for your break. Below are some ideas to get you started:
Set expectations. Think about what you’re hoping to do or achieve this break. Whether it is taking time to relax, connecting with others, or trying something new, it is helpful to acknowledge these things upfront! This will help you maintain realistic expectations for your time over break, and also help you achieve any goals you may have.
Schedule your time. Loosely planning out your time over break will help you achieve the things you were hoping to and also support your mental health. This could look like setting aside a day to rest and relax on the couch, or scheduling chunks of time each day to work on a passion project/self-care routine.
Share your goals with those around you. Others (relatives, housemates, friends, etc.) may have their own expectations and desires for your time over break, so it is important to communicate your goals with the people you are spending time with so you are on the same page!
Designate Space for Yourself
You may be missing your school environment over the break, or adjusting to sharing a space with family or friends. This can be a tough transition, but there are small changes you can make that can allow you to relax and recharge over break.
Adjust the physical space. If your space isn't a place where you can relax, you might need to change things up. Check out these 9 ways to make your room more comfortable – many that don’t cost a dime!
Define spatial boundaries. If you have your own room, ask your housemates to give you privacy when the door is shut. If you don’t have your own room, set boundaries that will allow you to protect and respect your alone time – maybe you share that when you cook dinner, that is a time and activity that you’d like to do alone.
Find space outside of your residence. If it is a challenge to get time to yourself wherever you are staying this break, explore some alternate nearby spaces! If the weather allows, get outside! Going for a walk or a run is not only great for your physical health but is also a great way to have some “you” time. Or, consider spending some time in a neighborhood coffee shop or library.
Stay Connected
Finding ways to talk to your friends regularly throughout break can also help ease the transition between school and wherever you are spending the break. Set up a group chat, schedule a weekly video call to stay updated on each other's lives, play online games, or even trade emails for longer life updates. If your friends live locally, plan to meet up in the middle for a day in a town you’ve never been to before!