Spend your nursing school winter break reading, reviewing NCLEX questions, cleaning your living space, and resting for next semester.
You’ve finished a semester of working hard and hardly sleeping, thanks to all the studying. Kudos! Now, here’s a winter break to-do list (nursing school edition) that will help you strike a balance between getting ready for the semester ahead and enjoying a well-deserved break.
To do: Use winter break to get prepared.
Get a jump on readings.
Sure, you feel like you’d rather not look at another book, but it’s all part of keeping your eyes on the prize. You’ll probably be glad you got a jump on the readings before the first day of the new semester. Purchase the books as soon as you can, and skim the chapters that are outlined in the syllabus.
Start reviewing questions.
You may want to review questions in preparation for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). If you can, reach out to other nursing students who have already taken the courses you’ll be taking next semester—or who may even have taken the NCLEX—to get a better idea of what to expect.
Cut the clutter.
When the semester ends, consider decluttering your living or study space. You don’t have to wait for spring cleaning. A little “winter cleaning” can help clear your head and create a more welcoming environment when you need to hunker down again for the next semester.
Buy a journal.
Did you find yourself stressing out this past semester over what you did and didn’t do? Try journaling when school starts up again. A few minutes of jotting down your thoughts, experiences, and concerns before bed can help reduce feelings of anxiety. That’s because writing them down frees your mind enough to be able to dismiss those looming to-dos, knowing you can tackle them the next day.
To do: Rest before returning to nursing school.
Enjoy family time.
Whether it’s going to a movie, eating out, or bingeing on a TV show together, nothing beats spending quality time with those you care about. Granted, it’s kind of a no-brainer, but it’s also easy to forget how much you need those special moments to help you recharge.
Make quiet time.
It’s essential to socialize and have fun with those you love. Yet there’s also something to be said for unplugging from the smartphone, laptop, or TV and spending a calming afternoon reading, going for a walk, or even napping—just you and a quiet moment or two.
Give your time.
The holidays are a great time to volunteer. Help out at a food bank or shelter, visit a nursing home, or simply offer to care for a neighbor’s pet during their own winter break. There are a load of choices out there, and while you’re giving, you’re getting, too—studies show that volunteering can help you become happier and healthier.
Create play time.
Live in a snowy climate? Get out for some fresh air and build a snowman. Then capture the moment with lots of pictures. If you live in a warmer region of the country and are feeling adventurous, plan to take a spontaneous road trip. After the rigors of following deadlines and class schedules, a spur-of-the-moment jaunt can refresh your spirits!
You may also want to add this to your to-do list: Think about using the winter break to get ahead on your NCLEX exam prep with Kaplan.
The post Winter Break To-Do List: Nursing School Edition appeared first on Calling All Nurses.