Having festive fun while getting prepared

Winter break: the time where you deserve a proper rest, but you also know that future you will be grateful if you don't completely switch your brain off. 

If you do have exams or assessments after the break, here's some easy, realistic ways to stay focused without ruining your time off.  

1. Start with a simple plan

Instead of creating a massive timetable that you won't follow, choose the smallest plan that you know you can stick to, like: 

• 30 minutes a day, 4 days a week
• One lecture recap per day
• Two short tasks before lunch 

Make sure to block out non-negotiable fun days like Christmas Day and New Year. Write out what days you think you could do some light study, seeing it laid out can help you enjoy your time away from uni without guilt. 

2. Decide what 'focused' even means this week

Your focus will look different depending on what you need. Choose one main priority: 

• Catch up: finish overdue lectures, tidy notes
• Stay warm-ready: light review so you don't forget everything
• Get ahead: prep next term readings, draft an essay plan 
• Life admin: organise your calendar, budget, email, modules

One focus beats five vague goals. 

3. Use the 'two-task start' method

When you sit down todo work, don't ask yourself to do everything. Start with just two tasks:

1. A quick win (10 minutes)
2. The main task (20-40 minutes)

That first quick win fights the 'I can't be bothered' feeling and helps get you moving and motivated. 

4. Create a 'good enough' study setup

You might not have your usual library set-up over the break, and that's fine. Aim for: 

• A regular spot – kitchen table, bedroom desk, a quiet café, a space in halls or campus if you're staying in Bath. 
• Minimal distractions – headphones in, phone on 'do not disturb' or in another room for 25 minutes. 
• Everything you need in reach – laptop, charger, notes, water, snacks. 

5. Look after your brain and body

This is important no matter how much studying you do over the break, make sure to always keep the basics in mind: 

• Sleep – as much as the Christmas socials allow, it makes revising so much easier. 
• Water and actual meals – not just chocolate and snacks all day (as tempting as it can be!). 
• Fresh air – this is a great activity to do with family and friends to use this free time to catch up. 
• Movement – a gym session, yoga video, or even just stretching between study sprints. 

Don't forget to reward yourself too, it is the festive season after all and you deserve it! 

Here's a realistic winter break focus structure to get you started: 

1. Pick 1 priority for the week
2. Do 30 minutes a day, 4 days a week
3. Start with 2 tasks (quick win and main task) 
4. Phone away for the first sprint
5. Stop after the minimum, guilt-free

Keep it doable, keep it consistent, and let your break still feel like a break. 

If you do need support over the holidays, don't hesitate to reach out and access any of our support services.