“Don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.”
– John Wooden
The holidays are a time to reflect and be thankful for what you have. Focus on the good because it gets better. Remind yourself about all the good people and things you have in your life. Think about your goals and how you can accomplish them in the new year. Remember, the most important thing you can do anytime of the year is be kind to yourself.
Holidays are filled with many things. Things that both can and cannot be done. Thank goodness for the breaks. A break from work, school, or both can be used for more than celebration. No matter what traditions you practice or beliefs you have, the holidays mark the beginning and end of the year. Some people may go home, travel out of town to see family, some may be moving, perhaps staying put, but everyone has responsibilities they need to stay on top of.
Academics
Whether you’re home or abroad using your break to set new goals and/or plan out the steps in which your goals can be accomplished. While free time is welcomed by most, everyone does not cope as well with a lack of structure. If you’re traveling for the holidays, it can be tiresome, but plan ahead and you can get a good amount of reading done on a long flight or bus ride. Instead of a negative self-reflection from struggling with an assignment or class focus on the bigger picture. Reflecting on the highs, the lows, and most memorable parts of your entire semester or class can be informative. Then set an intention that motivates you to do the best you can the next semester.
Rest, work, repeat. After a day or two of sleeping in and resting, get back to a consistent schedule filled with a balance of what you need and want to do.
Mental/Physical Health
Don’t let seasonal depression sneak up on you. During the holidays mental health amongst students drops drastically due to social obligations, distractions, and self isolation. Experiencing difficulties around the holidays isn’t uncommon due to missed opportunities, or memories of lost loved ones. Try to plan your days out or plan for something productive for each day. Make tiny promises that gradually build over time to track your productivity, get yourself a gift or two (in moderation) to counteract any of the unwanted feelings that the holidays may bring.
Practice Harm Reduction: Go ahead and indulge in some sweets, partake in the decadent food and drinks, even party, but set a limit for yourself. Instead of two or three drinks limit your alcohol or desserts and drink plenty of water! Take your vitamins or spend time in the daylight every day. We are constantly surrounded by fluorescent artificial light and your body needs vitamin D. The sun’s full spectrum of light will help beat the seasonal sadness.
Lastly, say no! Ultimately you get to choose your schedule and how to spend your time. Reducing stressful holiday obligations by only going go to events you find enjoyable or leaving early from ones that are not is how you can avoid toxic environments. With planning, it is possible to make healthy choices for yourself.
Finances
Whew! Money matters and you may notice big changes in your spending during the holidays because of travel, outings, or gift exchanges. Instead of trying to get everyone a gift, try “thrifting” for a more thoughtful gift or, planning what to buy instead of making big impulse purchases, or offering services — instead of buying gifts for family, roommates, and friends you can offer to help them out.
Even those who find themselves without many places to go or things to do for the holidays, no one has to be or feel alone. Volunteer within your school or community. Many jobs are hiring for seasonal workers (you can get ahead of the expenses for the next year/semester). Organizing a food or toy drive can also give a sense of purpose while helping those who are less fortunate. There are many people in need and lots to do that doesn’t involve spending money.
So, get out there, and master this holiday season!