The five Rs for students on holiday
“WHAT should I do during my school holidays?”

That is a question usually on students’ minds when it’s time for a school break.

If you are one of the country’s primary and secondary school students who are starting their two-week respite from classroom learning, here are my five recommendations on how you can spend your time in the best way possible.

1. Reconnect with yourself

You can do this by revisiting the old hobbies you have set aside due to your studies.

Pick up that book you have been putting off to read or go to your storeroom and put those sports supplies back into action.

Additionally, cultivate healthy habits. For example, establish a regular sleeping schedule. Eight hours of sleep is ideal to give your body ample time to rest and recharge for the next day.

Increase your sleeping hours by gradually bringing forward your bedtime. Set a reminder for your target bedtime and minimise distractions in your sleeping corner, such as turning off unnecessary electronic devices. Most importantly, keep your sleeping area clean and comfortable.

2. Reorganise your space

A good way to start your break is by clearing off your unused items, such as clothes and books, and giving them away. You might earn a little pocket money if you put them up for sale. Cleaning your space is beneficial in reducing clutter in your life, both mentally and physically.

3. Reel in some new skills and knowledge

What better way to spend your free time than by learning something new? This is the perfect time to rise to the challenge and try out a new skill.

Learning new skills opens up many possibilities and opportunities to boost your resume and satisfy your adventurous spirit.

In this age of technology, you can easily learn a new language, pick up a musical instrument and acquire some computer skills. If this becomes your hobby, it can be a great way to destress and keep your brain active as you learn.

4. Reflect and get on your mark

An important item on your school break agenda should be to look back on your achievements in school and reflect on them. This helps to lay the foundation for setting new milestones and goals.

Although you have just switched into holiday mode, this is the time to think about your plans. Prepare for what’s ahead to ensure an optimum study-life balance.

5. Reconnect with family and friends

While enjoying some self-care moments, be sure to allocate time to reconnect with family and friends by spending quality time together.

Seize the opportunity to go on a holiday, be it out of town or within the city. Spending time with loved ones will always create valuable memories, whether it is sharing a simple homecooked meal or watching TV shows together, because it is the company that makes home feel like home.

At the end of the day, whether you enjoy some fun or even just a quiet time of relaxation, the most important thing is to do everything at your own pace and enjoy the process. After all, it is your very own “me-time”! So, make the most of it and have a great study break!

Hoi Kei, 21, a student in Kuala Lumpur, is a participant of the BRATs Young Journalist Programme run by The Star’s Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) team.

For updates on the BRATs programme, go to facebook.com/niebrats.
BRATs,school holidays
“WHAT should I do during my school holidays?”