There is something about a long school break that feels like standing in the middle of a wide, quiet road. No lectures. No deadlines. No 7:00 am classes. At first, it feels like a well-deserved pause. But after a few days of doing nothing, boredom creeps in, and that sneaky guilt shows up, reminding you that you are wasting the break.
The truth is, a break like this is not the time to “hustle” endlessly. It’s time to reset, refocus, and rebuild. If you use it well, it can shape the rest of the year. So, instead of letting the days roll into each other, here are 10 things you can do during the break that will refresh you and push you forward.
1. Learn a Skill and Stick to It
There is never a better time to pick up a skill than when your schedule is wide open. You can learn something related to your field or something completely different; this break is the perfect time to commit without distractions. You can learn graphic design, video editing, voiceover, podcasting, content writing, or even basic coding. Free platforms like YouTube, Coursera, and Skillshare have resources that are beginner-friendly. The key is not just to “start,” but to be consistent.
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2. Read Personal Development Books That Grow You
One of the easiest and most rewarding ways to change your mindset is by reading books that feed your personal growth. This break, pick up books that challenge your habits, build your confidence, or help you think differently. Books like Atomic Habits by James Clear, The Smart Money Woman by Arese Ugwu, and The Defining Decade by Meg Jay are all excellent reads. Don’t just flip through the pages; take notes, reflect, and apply what you’re reading. One good book can shift your entire mindset.
3. Internship, Paid or Not, Start Somewhere
You do not need to wait until you graduate before stepping into the real world. This is a great time to gain practical experience. Even if it is a short-term internship, the lessons, exposure, and networks you will gain are worth it. You can intern at local businesses, radio or TV stations, NGOs, or online startups. If you do not find formal opportunities, reach out to someone you admire and ask to volunteer or shadow them. Start where you are, and let curiosity lead you forward.
4. Attend Conferences, Bootcamps, and Webinars
There is always something happening online or offline. Youth conferences, professional bootcamps, leadership summits, and faith-based retreats are places for learning and networking. Use your break to attend one or two. Don’t just sit at the back and scroll through your phone; be present. Take notes, ask questions, and connect with people. The ideas and inspiration you gather could help with your next big move.
5. Visit Places That Broaden Your Perspective
You do not have to travel across the country to explore. Sometimes, inspiration is just a few streets away. Visit a museum, an art gallery, a radio station, or even your local court to sit in on public hearings. You can go to bookstores, creative hubs, or peaceful spots that allow you to think. Let your feet take you somewhere new, even if it is within your town. Changing your environment often leads to a change in mindset.
6. Network with People Who Inspire You
The people you connect with during the break can open doors for years to come. Reach out to those you admire. Send that direct message, comment thoughtfully on LinkedIn, or reconnect with an old friend or mentor. Learning from people who are already doing what you hope to achieve is invaluable. You don’t need to fake anything; just be real, be curious, and be consistent in how you engage.
7. Join a Learning Community or an Interest Group
Growth becomes easier when you are not doing it alone. You can find like-minded individuals who are serious about improvement in a writers’ circle, tech groups, a creatives’ hangout, or a student accountability group. Many of these groups offer mentorship, challenges, and valuable discussions. Search online, ask friends, or look around your city. There is a space for you where people are growing.
8. Volunteer for a Cause You Care About
There is something humbling about giving your time without expecting anything in return. It stretches you and teaches compassion in ways that books never could. Volunteer at a school, church, NGO, hospital, or community centre. Help teach children, assist at an event, or join a clean-up project. Every little thing you do adds to your CV and your character.
9. Start a Personal Project
You know that thing you’ve been meaning to do for ages? This is your time. Start the blog, record the first content, open that YouTube channel, or organise the closet you have been avoiding. Breaks are the best time to pursue personal dreams without pressure. The goal is not perfection; it’s progress. Even if no one sees it, creating something for yourself is one of the most fulfilling things you can do.
10. Reflect, Rest, and Re-strategise
This is your chance to pause and ask: How far have I come? What do I want next? Where am I falling short? Journal, pray, talk to someone wise, sleep, and heal. Do not rush to “look busy.” Stillness is productive, especially when paired with self-awareness. Use this time to slow down and realign your focus. When school resumes, you want to return sharper, stronger, and more intentional.
The break will not last forever, but how you use it will influence your next semester, your next opportunity, and perhaps your next level in life. So rest well, but do not neglect yourself. Use this time to plant seeds in your mind, habits, network, and dreams; when school resumes, you will thank yourself for every single intentional decision you made.