By Daisy Wong
“IT’S A SNOW DAY!” When we were young children, we’d run to the window and watch the snowflakes fall softly from the sky, the sight of a winter wonderland engrossing us. It would always be a race to put on snow clothes and run outside to play in the snow until we nearly had frostbite, our little button noses red and snotty, and our hands and feet cold as icicles. Although now, as teens, we still want to run out like when we were little, we can take advantage of our snow day and turn it into a productive day.
First, make a plan as to what you need to do for the day. Christine Carter from the University of Berkley finds that simply making plans to finish tasks can make a huge difference. She explains it’s more important to know when you decide to complete a task compared to what tasks you complete. Add any meetings or scheduled activities first, then, add those tasks that you write on your to-do list, but never end up finishing them.
Second, get rid of distractions. Turn off your ringer on your phone. If you have an iPhone, try the new updated focus, where you can minimize distractions on your phone. Here’s a guide if you’re curious. Get rid of social media tabs on your computer. Resist the urge to visit YouTube. You know best how to stay focused. Do what helps you concentrate. If that’s listening to music or finding a silent room in the house, go for it.
Third, remember to take breaks! Set time to relax, talk to your friends, or play in the snow (it is a snow day after all). Cornell University writes that purposeful breaks refresh your mind and body so that you can increase your energy, productivity, and focus. Expressing yourself creatively or getting a change of scenery are good examples of taking purposeful breaks.
Snow days are a blast of fun, but also a good time to be productive. Take the opportunity to do things that you’ve been meaning to do and to get back on track. Enjoy your snow day!
References:
https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_to_structure_your_day_to_accomplish_more
https://health.cornell.edu/about/news/study-breaks-stress-busters