After making it through finals week, all students are in need of a break from the constant work. A three week break seems nice in hindsight, but as it goes along, many begin to feel bored or useless. Some even feel worse after having a long break as guilt sets in due to not have done anything over a time of relaxation. There are things you can do in order to stop this boredom. 

Take on a new hobby! Learn and practice something new that already follows current interests. For example, if you like food, try making a new recipe or if you like art, try a new type of paint variety. Others hobbies can include puzzles, DIY’s, bike-riding, or thrift-shopping. 

Another way to fight boredom is to plan out the new year. Buy a calendar or create a note sheet so that when school starts back up, you feel prepared. Learn to use it, so it doesn’t just take up space in a backpack.

Become organized! Whether this is organizing your room or schedule, it will fight boredom while getting things done. If everything is already organized take on a project to make improvements or redesign simple things in the house. 

Visiting loved ones is a great thing to do over winter break. If your grandparents are retired, there is never a bad time to visit and help them out. You could cook them dinner or even do some harder work that may be difficult for older people. Building relationships with family members is always important and it spreads joy. 

There is an idea that could get rid of boredom, but it will be overlooked and seem contradicting. Limiting the amount of time spent on phones or other devices can make winter break feel more productive. Yes, catching up on Netflix shows is important, but spending the entire break laying around on your phone will make you feel as if you wasted it. After putting down social media you may have real-world experiences or live in the moment (which is unheard of to many).

If all else fails try reading a new interesting book. It takes minimal effort to read and many can read for hours upon end. Many students’ interests in books has decreased because at one point or another were forced to read one for school, but reading a book that suits your interests is better.