Feeling those Back-to-Uni January Blues? Here’s 6 Top Tips for Jumping Back into Uni Life

Not everyone enjoys going back to university after the holiday break. Whether you enjoy spending time with your family, love your hometown, or just like having a break from uni life, going back to uni after the holidays can be difficult. And, the cold, rainy weather in January, along with the short days before the sun sets, can make it even harder to motivate yourself to get out and enjoy your time at university.

If this is you, or you just want some tips to help you thrive at university in the new year, keep reading to find out our top 6 tips to help you get back into the swing of uni life!

Tip 1: Make lots of plans with your friends

Over the course of your time at university, your uni friends will become your family away from home. So, one of the best ways to help you settle back into uni life after Christmas is to spend time with your friends.

If you’re not into clubbing or going out, don’t worry, there are so many other ways to spend time with your friends – having a chat over coffee, brunch, or lunch, taking a trip to the cinema, going for a crisp morning walk, or even just having a cosy movie night in (which is an especially good option if you’re trying to save money).

It’s important not to underestimate the impact of spending time with your friends – it is a great way to boost your serotonin and improve your mental health, whilst also giving you the opportunity to share your feelings about coming back to university with those who understand those feelings the most.

Tip 2: Join a society

Joining a society half-way through the year can be daunting – but it doesn’t have to be! Lots of societies will have taster sessions at the beginning of the new term which can be a great way to learn more about the society without having to make any big commitments to it.

And, all universities have such a broad range of societies, there really is something for everyone. So, whether you’re into sport, music, food, theatre (and so much more!), societies are a great way of meeting new, often like-minded people. The activities that they organise are always fun and engaging, and an amazing way to combat those back-to-uni blues.

Tip 3: Find fun indoor activities to do

The days in January and February can be miserable with a cold mixture of snow, rain, and wind. This often means that some our favourite summertime activities, such as picnics and beach days, are not an option. But don’t fear, there are still plenty of fun things to do inside! Shopping malls or outlets can be a great way to spend a rainy afternoon. A trip to go bowling or to the cinema, or even to the gym would also be a great mood booster.

Thinking outside the box, there are creative options such as taking a class in pottery painting or jewellery making. If you planned in advance, you could also take a trip to the theatre or a concert.

There are also more cost-effective options such as baking, reading, watching a new series, or listening to a new podcast.

Plus, lots of these can be done with friends, to brighten those dark days even more!

Tip 4: Make sure to spend time outside

When the days are so short, and cold, it’s easy to stay inside all day – especially when there is lots to do inside. Yet, not spending any time outside can also negatively affect your mood. Spending time outside does not have to be a long task – it can be as simple as taking a walk to the supermarket, or to visit a friend. Even if you just set the goal of going to uni every day, that can be both a productive goal academically and also assure that you spend time outside.

Another interesting idea is to find a dog to walk. This might seem complicated, but it is actually really simple. The app BorrowMyDoggy shows you dogs nearby that need walking – and there are lots of dogs on the app so it’s really easy to find the right dog for you, and the dog who best fits into your schedule. Walking a dog is a great way to get you outside, and also give you a little bit of exercise.

Tip 5: Set consistent, achievable goals for your uni work

When coming back to uni, the idea of starting your uni work again can be overwhelming. So, it’s best to set weekly, small, achievable goals so the workload does not seem as vast. Creating a schedule, which includes time to relax outside of uni work, can be a great way to outline your goals each week. As part of this, you should note your big essay deadlines or exam dates in order to keep on top of everything.

It is also a good idea to organise study or reading time with your friends, and also to keep changing your study place as these are both great ways to keep motivated.

Tip 6: Make time to visit your family and friends back home

It’s also ok to recognise that when you’re away at uni you miss your family and friends from home. Missing those who are close to you is a completely normal feeling! That’s why it can be good to make plans in advance to meet up with them. Knowing that you will see them soon can help to dispel any feelings of anxiety or stress that you have about leaving home again.

Jump Back into Uni Life

So, coming back to uni can be hard, especially at this time of year. But, taking small steps every day to do things that boost your mental health will make a huge difference – and these 6 top tips will do just that. Go on, give them a try – it might just be your best semester yet!