Your 5-step January reset guide

It can always be difficult coming back to an old routine after having time off for the holidays. One minute you're in full holiday mode, the next you're expected to remember your timetable, feed yourself properly and prepare for exams.

But, with a simple reset week you can make the start of term two feel more manageable.

Here's a practical guide to help get you back in the uni routine. 

1. Reset your sleep schedule 😴

Unfortunately your sleep pattern won't shift in one night, but you can do it gradually and gently to help make your first Monday back not feel like a slog. 

Try these tips for 4 to 6 days before you're due to come back: 

• Move your bedtime and wake-up time 15-30 minutes earlier each day
• Get daylight as early as you can
• Keep naps short or avoid them completely
• If you have an early start in your timetable, do one 'practice morning' the weekend before

2. Do any quick life-admin first ✅

Before you get stuck into any big plans, do the 2-minute jobs that can help you feel more organised and less anxious, such as: 

• Check your university emails
• Look up your first week's timetable
• Check any key dates to be aware of
• If you have a part-time job, confirm your shifts for the first week back

3. Get your resources ready 💻

From your tech to your course materials, know exactly what you'll need to start your course again so you can dive straight into the next term without worry. 

Make sure to:

• Pack all of the essential stationary and textbooks you need
• Download/make sure you can access any online resources or lecture slides you need
• Update any technology

It's also important to familiarise yourself with things like support resources if you do need help settling back in, as well as keeping up to date with any upcoming events or socials that can re-engage you with life on campus. 

4. Get your space into 'weekday mode' 🧺

You know what they say...tidy room, tidy mind! Do yourself a small favour by making time to reset your room to feel like somewhere you can function well. 

• Clear your surfaces (desk, bed, bedside)
• Put your laundry in one place and try and start the term with an empty laundry basket
• Restock the basics like toilet roll, soap and kitchen essentials
• Charge everything you need

Don't start the new term cluttered, make your space one that you can feel focused and relaxed in. 

5. Reconnect without over-committing 🫶

You might already feel more socially settled than term one, but remember that you don't have to say yes to everything if it feels like too much. 

Here are some low-pressure ways to ease back in after the break:

• Message a friend to meet for coffee or go on a walk on your first day back
• Go to a society taster session
• Book onto a halls event

If you don't want to arrive with a blank week, make a little effort to organise or be a part of something before you step foot on campus. 

You don't need to come back to uni feeling 100% ready, but it's good to have a bit of structure and a few basics in place.

If you are struggling to settle back into student life, know that you're not the only one and that there's plenty of support here for you in halls – we're here for you.