It is now over a week into January, and holiday decorations are finally being taken down. Now that the general festivities have passed, many of us have come to ask ourselves one question: What do we do now?

We live in a society that is very forward-driven. Almost everything we do is geared toward bettering our future (usually by working toward a preferable career). This isn’t really a bad thing; aspirations are a force that makes us who we are. Still, although it’s smart to be productive, it’s wrong to feel forced to be productive all the time. Here are four reasons why this winter break, I encourage you to waste some time.

1. It’s fun.

Really, you should try to be doing anything that’s fun so long as it doesn’t harm you. Whether your idea of fun is spending an entire day in bed with Rice Krispy treats and Netflix or getting glammed up to go into the city with your friends… if it's fun, you win. It’s as simple as that. Granted, it’s not responsible (or feasibly possible) to do this sort of thing every day of your life. But, it’s winter break, and it’s possible to do it right now.

So, do it. Do all the things.

Take time to yourself— and remember… "f" is for friends who do stuff together, "u" is for u and me, "n" is for anytime, anytime at all, rejecting productivity. (I swear that sounded funnier in my head.)

2. It’s healthy.

Yes, that’s right. Wasting time is healthy.

Since we are often so busy with school or work or an array of other challenges life forces onto us, it is extremely imperative to take time to rest and rejuvenate during winter break in order to gain your energy back (and your will to live!). Doing things that are enjoyable to you-- like taking a stroll through the park or reading an exciting book-- are definitely positive influences on your mental and physical well being.

It’s just science, or human nature, or whatever.

3. It messes up your routine.

As humans who try to be somewhat functional, we tend to develop a routine that centers around school or work. When we’re on break, however, it gives us a chance to break the (disgustingly monotonous) routine. This is so good for us because doing the same thing over and over again is v. distasteful, and would probably destroy our minds.

Messing up your routine during winter break is a chance for you to gain your sanity back.

And finally...

4. It’s not really a waste of time.

Doing things that claim to be “wasting your time”... usually aren’t. In some way or another, you are generally being productive even when you’re not appearing to be. At the end of the day, happiness is productive in my book.

And if anyone gives you a hard time about enjoying yourself this winter break, just remember: