Two words that bring to mind all the beaches, bars, and bikinis you can imagine. From movies, Instagram, or even firsthand experience, Spring Break is well known as a no holds barred party. You may be thinking the *perfect* Spring Break is finding the most amazing all-inclusive resort, curating outfits, or dreaming about a hot date after dark. It definitely can be, and if those are your goals – you do you. But if that much “wild” sounds a little bit overwhelming, let’s turn your Spring Break into an opportunity to manage chaos so you can vacay your way!
What are some ways to turn down the turn up? It’s easy to list the basics – stay safe, drink responsibly, have safe sex – however, try focusing on a new approach. Start with becoming aware of your automatic thoughts. Your automatic thoughts create your choices. Healthy habits are just long-term healthy choices, and all habits begin with the choices you make. Consciously change your automatic thoughts, and your choices and habits will follow suit.
| Instead of: | Think: | |
| I have no control over what happens. | I can control what I want to do and what I don’t want to do. | |
| If I don’t go all out I won’t have as much fun. | I don’t need to rely on going all out to have a great time. | |
| Work hard, play hard. | I deserve a break mentally, physically, and emotionally. |
Changing your habits will take time. Focus on mostly versus all the time. You will see progress which will enable you to remain committed to creating healthier habits. No one can do anything 100% of the time. Perfectionism can hold back the creation of desirable habits.
So how does all of this fit into creating the Spring Break of your dreams? You are ultimately in control of your mindset, and your mindset will determine your experience. Use these four habits to design a mindset that will make the most out of your break.
- Take responsibility for your thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Practice acceptance. Accept that your ideal Spring Break may or may not be the same as your friends. You are the only one responsible for creating your own happiness. Living your best life looks different for everyone.
- Begin with the end in mind.
What’s your goal? Visualize your ideal Spring Break. Next, decide what you have and don’t have control over. Then, what can you do and not do that will enable you to have the vacation you want. Don’t forget to ask yourself what might get in the way of that so you can prepare accordingly.
- Values-based decision making.
Learn to overcome your fears of being judged for doing what you believe to be right according to your values. If something doesn’t feel okay for any reason – even if everyone else seems to be doing it – trust your gut and do what feels right for you.
- Take care of yourself.(You are the ONLY one that can take care of You)
Be proactive with regular acts of self-care. Ask yourself, “What small things can I do to take care of myself while I’m on break that will have a positive impact on me having the Spring Break that I want?” Then think, “What are my absolute non-negotiables that help me feel my best?” Planning ahead can make a huge difference. It definitely helps to find a like-minded friend to be an accountability partner.
