I’m back home for the holidays and for winter break, which means I’ve got a lot of adjusting to do. The same routine I had at school in Albany simply isn’t going to work for my home life. I have different things to do here. I see different people, I’m taking online courses, I’m starting a new part time temp job, and I have different responsibilities in the home.

My first day home was overwhelming. I got home, started unpacking and was immediately bombarded with text messages from people asking me when I could see them and if they wanted to see me in the next day. Day two was even more overwhelming as I attempted to figure out when I would wake up and how I would go about my day. Today I’m taking the time to figure that all out as I go along and figured I could give assistance to anyone else who is in this same predicament.

It doesn’t seem all too enjoyable setting an alarm again, but giving yourself a time to wake up every day will give you a sense of routine. Try to coordinate it with your work schedule if you have one and wake up at the same time every day.

2. Build a morning routine.

The morning is how we start our days and it gives us a certain pace to follow for the rest of our plans. Build your morning routine, however, you want to. Mine is waking up, taking a shower, brewing my coffee and checking some social media and reading the news. I end my morning routine with breakfast and getting dressed. But tailor it to you.

3. Make a list.

Make a list of things you want to accomplish that day. Whether it be grocery shopping, meeting a friend for coffee, or going to work. Whatever it is you have to do, make a list for it and cross it off as you go. This can give you a sense of progress as you go through your day.

4. Designate days to meet up with people.

When you go home it can be overwhelming when all of your friends want to see you at the same time it can be hard to say no. Don’t be afraid to do so. Plan ahead of time and let each person know when it is okay to meet up and what works for you. Seeing your friends should be fun, not overwhelming.

5. Build an evening routine.

Just like the morning routine, it’s always good to have an evening ritual. Make a certain time to close the day off and get ready for bed and relax.

6. Have a day off.

Technically, winter break is a whole month off but you still need to get things done within that time period. Mark a day of the week to be your day off. Wake up late, don’t see anyone, and make plans for yourself.

I am ecstatic to be home and I look forward to the holidays with this routine in mind. I should be on my way to a productive winter!