Get through finals season with our tips!
As the air fills with holiday cheer and glittering lights adorn every corner, it’s hard not to get swept up in the holiday spirit. But for students, this time of year comes with a side dish of stress: finals season.
Balancing holiday excitement with exam preparations can feel like juggling ornaments—delicate and a little chaotic. Don’t worry! We’ve got tips to help you stay on track while savouring the season.
Deck the halls with a schedule
Before you start humming carols, take a moment to map out your study plan. Finals season is like running a marathon. Having a clear roadmap keeps you from veering off course.
Use a planner or a digital calendar to block off time for studying each subject. Be realistic about how much you can tackle in one session. Build in time for breaks and don’t forget to schedule some holiday-themed rewards, like a trip to see the neighbourhood lights or a quick coffee date with friends.
Structuring your time helps ensure you’re productive without sacrificing all the fun this season has to offer.
Silent night (and day)
The right environment can make or break your focus. Start by finding a space that’s free from distractions, like a quiet nook in your home or a cozy corner of the library. Then, add a festive touch to make it more inviting: string up some twinkly lights, play soft instrumentals and keep your favourite seasonal snack within reach.
Don’t forget to set boundaries, like putting your phone on Do Not Disturb or letting your family and friends know when you need uninterrupted time. A well-designed space can boost your mood and help you get into a steady study groove.
When campus life feels overwhelming, the IGNITE Zen Zone at Lakeshore campus is your go-to escape. Tucked away in the K building’s basement, this peaceful spot offers a serene environment to relax, recharge and take a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of student life.
Jingle all the way to self-care
You can’t pour from an empty mug (of eggnog or otherwise). Finals are taxing and it’s easy to forget about basic self-care when your to-do list seems never-ending. Prioritize getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals and drinking plenty of water. Exercise is also your secret weapon. It’s a great stress reliever and keeps your energy levels up. Even a quick walk or stretching session can make a huge difference.
Treat yourself to a self-care moment during study breaks: a face mask, a holiday-scented bath bomb or even a nap can help you recharge and power through.
‘Tis the season for breaks
Studying nonstop is a one-way ticket to burnout. While it might seem counterintuitive, regular breaks actually improve your focus and retention. Try the Pomodoro technique—study for 25 minutes, then take a five-minute break. During these breaks, do something festive to lift your spirits. Watch a scene from your favourite holiday movie, make a cup of hot cocoa or take a quick stroll to enjoy the fresh air.
These small moments of joy will not only help your brain rest but also keep your holiday spirit alive amid the stress.
Let it go (just a little)
It’s tempting to aim for perfection, but remember it’s OK to let some things slide. Finals season can feel overwhelming and it’s impossible to do it all. Instead of striving for unattainable perfection, focus on your priorities and do your best. Maybe this year you can’t attend every holiday event or bake those Pinterest-worthy cookies, and that’s OK. Even Rudolph had an off day before he found his groove.
Give yourself grace, acknowledge your efforts and celebrate small wins along the way because every step forward counts.
Joy to the (study) world
Who says studying can’t be fun? Turn your study sessions into a festive affair to keep things light. Create a playlist of holiday-themed instrumentals—think piano covers of carols or jazz renditions of classics—to keep the vibe cozy without distracting lyrics.
If you’re working with a study group, spice things up by hosting an ugly sweater study session or exchanging small treats to boost morale. By blending holiday joy into your routine, you’ll be more motivated to stay on track and less likely to dread hitting the books.
All is calm, all is bright
The holiday season reminds us to pause and appreciate the magic around us. Even during finals, take a moment each day to practice gratitude. It could be as simple as jotting down three things you’re thankful for: supportive friends, a warm study space or that perfect cup of peppermint tea.
Reflecting on what’s good in your life can help you stay positive and grounded, even when the pressure is on. Remember, the holiday spirit isn’t just about gifts and glitter; it’s about connection, hope and finding moments of peace amid the chaos.
Finals don’t have to overshadow the holiday season. With a little planning and a sprinkle of holiday magic, you can stay Fa-La-La-La-Focused and finish strong and ready to fully embrace the festivities once the last exam is done.
By striking a balance between focus and festivity, you’ll head into the new year with your academic goals checked off and a heart full of holiday cheer. So grab your notes, light that festive candle and let’s make this finals season merry and bright!
Feature image courtesy of Kelly Sikkema via Unsplash.
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