Around this time during the winter season, the usual routines that students may have are put to the test, similar to seasonal depression. From the scheduled breaks–December and Winter break–to bonus snow days – and getting random holidays off – routines can be easily diminished. 

This past Winter break from 2/16 – 2/20, in combination with the additional snow day and delayed opening, completely destroyed my already-broken routine. It was difficult enough returning from Christmas break and the January holidays, but now with the addition of the winter break, there’s going to have to be a miracle to get back to where I was pre-Christmas.

This time of the year can be especially difficult for seniors, as they may have already gotten their acceptance letter/s or committed to college, so they may not feel as much passion to work hard. Along with the college acceptance letters, you can’t forget about how many scholarships each student has to apply for, with little-to-no results. This period of year is the time  to try and get back to the way you functioned before December break. Staying involved, continuing to work hard, and keep balancing school and personal life is how I will get back on my feet, and how you will too. Even with the mental struggles and academic roadblocks, life still goes on.

Taking care of yourself by taking a break from specific events can really help a recharge process at this point in the year. Focus on keeping those grades up and working towards something in the future, and recognize that everyone goes through tough times. Spending time with friends and family and genuinely sharing a few laughs can help your mind heal exponentially. I, for one, have random waves with my family at the dinner table where we cannot stop laughing for the duration of dinner. It only happens when we least expect it, when we are truly in need of a family bonding moment and we didn’t even realize it.

Forcing a specific event or academic goal to happen the exact way you want it to happen will not get what you want out of it. Everything that happens in life that is real, happens when you least expect it. No matter what happens in your life, you must keep moving. The challenges that one faces in life is only what makes them stronger. As Ted Lasso says, “Onward. Forward.”