As the Easter Bunny approaches, many of us are looking forwards to a well deserved holiday break.
But while some may be planning to relax and unwind, others are keen to use the time to their advantage.
Whether you're looking to learn a new skill, deepen your knowledge, or simply recharge your batteries, here are some tips to help you maximise your Easter break.
1: What do you want to achieve?
The first step towards productive personal development during Easter is to set clear objectives for yourself.
It's not going to happen by accident.
Decide what you want to achieve during the break and write it down. This will help you stay focussed and motivated throughout the holiday.
For example: You could set a goal to improve your communication skills by practising active listening with your family and see what difference it makes. Or instead of binging on Netflix, how about picking a few recommended YouTube videos on your chosen field of interest?
2: How Are You Going to Do It?
Once you have your goals in mind, it's time to create a plan of action. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks and create a schedule that allows you to accomplish them.
Of course, you can include time for relaxation and socialising too.
As I’m averse to programming my time while on holiday - in fact, I'm averse to it at any time - I much prefer to stay flexible and set myself daily objectives which can be done whenever I fancy, so long as they’re done today.
So if your goal is to brush up on your German, your plan could include to read for 30 minutes, have a zoom conversation with a German speaking friend each day, and self test using flashcards which you make during the previous two activities.
3: Try Something New
Any time is a great time to learn something new. If you can't think of anything, ask a few trusted friends what they would suggest - they might surprise you.
Try to keep an open mind and give them a chance. So long as there’s an inkling of interest, it’s worth trying to kindle. You never know - you might be on the verge of a whole new breakthrough.
I was recently recommended a book on Startups. I’m not interested in starting a business - or should I say ‘I wasn’t’ until I started to read about the learning processes involved with them (undoubtably a few articles will follow on this subject).
4: Move Yourself
The older we get, the less we move. Physical activity is essential for maintaining good mental health as well as physical health.
Use your Easter break to try out new physical activities or to get back into a routine.
You could go for a run, take a yoga class, or hit the gym. Pair up with an exercise buddy for moral support. And remember, a good workout can also help you relieve stress and improve your mood.
5: (My favourite) Reconnect with Others
Finally, use your Easter break to get together with key people who can motivate you.
Plan out a dinner, lunch or even breakfast with someone you don’t normally have the opportunity to spend time with.
If you’re going away, a little research to see if any of your network are within striking distance might pay dividends. I find people are usually flattered when you send them a message saying I’ll be in your part of the world next week and I’d love to meet for coffee. You never know what benefits could happen as a result.
So while Easter is a time for a break, remember ‘A change is as good as a rest’. By making the effort to set learning targets, create a plan, experience something new, getting exercise and strengthening your network, you can make the most of your holiday break and return to work having done something useful.