It's the holiday season, the most wonderful time of the year. That’s why, it’s an excellent time if you want to stay on top of your school or university work and all the revision you have to do. I know it doesn’t sound like fun but it can totally be manageable with a few simple tips. Let’s get down to them.

Efficient ways to study during Christmas

1. Schedule your studying at the same time every day

Some people prefer to study early in the morning while others prefer night sessions. Whatever the case, set a particular time for your studying and stick to it. This is the best way to keep track of it and stay organized even with several holiday distractions (friends dropping in out of nowhere, last-minute shopping or meals out). Personally, I suggest spending 2-3 hours early in the morning to get it out of the way and have the whole afternoon and evening for family, friends and yourself. I know it’s not exciting to wake up and start studying first thing in the morning but trust me. If you are snowed under with present shopping, errands and Christmas obligations, you will want to be done with studying before all that.

2. Keep it simple and quick

Whether you consider revising the whole book or just a chapter, make sure you have realistic expectations. Make a study plan and set goals that are reasonable. Who said Christmas isn’t tiring just because it’s a holiday? There are friends and family to see, shopping to be done, decorations to be made and the list is long. So, assume that you have the same amount of time as that on a regular school, university or work day. This way, you can be sensible about you can achieve and make the most of your time. By all means, do bring some extra things to do. You never know when you may find a couple of extra hours to get some more work done. Small but frequent study sessions are the key here.

3. Take Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve off

Holidays are called holidays for a reason. Dedicate these days to meeting your loved-ones, catching up with them or having a meal together. Even if you haven’t made lots of plans and you find yourself alone at home, this is a perfect opportunity to open a glass of wine, watch a movie on Netflix (guilty as charged…), run a long bath or make up for the sleep you have been longing for. In other words, devote these days to yourself, close friends and family. After all, this is the whole point of holidays.

4. Stay organized

Organizing is going to save you lots of time. And we all know time is of the essence especially when it comes to Christmas and holidays. How will you do this? Write down your priorities and set some deadlines so you know how much time you are going to need for each task beforehand. What’s the magic word here? Lists! Yes you heard me right. Lists! I’ll make a separate post about how to make a successful list. Note all your festive obligations including shopping, meeting friends and family meals. Which day, what time, how long… plus, add an extra hour every day for unexpected events or visits. This way, you know exactly what you have to do, when you have to do it and how long it is going to take you.

5. Avoid digital distractions

Social media are a huge part of holidays and Christmas. However, if you intend to study, you should try and stay away. It may be very intriguing to scroll among pictures of Yule logs and gatherings but turn off all notifications for the couple of hours you are going to study. Not only will you save essential time but you will also detox yourself from the digital world. Instead, listen to some music while studying if you like. There are several “concentration music” pieces online that will help you stay focused.

6. Relax and keep your mind happy

It can’t be all about studying and revising. Set 2 days a week for relaxation and rejuvenation. Get out, breathe some fresh air, take a long walk with your pet, do yoga, meditate, cook (have you tried my delicious melomakarona recipe?). Do whatever makes you happy and lets you come closer to your core. It doesn’t have to be the whole day. Even a couple of hours for yourself can make a huge difference. You will be surprised how much better you are going to function afterwards.

Overall, not getting carried away during Christmas holidays is easier said than done. But, I can guarantee you with these tips you will be able to manage your studying.

I wish you all very happy holidays!

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