How to Get Back into the Routine After a Long Summer

Written by Christina Nicholson

August 19, 2017

After a relaxing summer off, it’s hard to snap right back into the routine of getting up early and becoming disciplined, especially if you took the entire summer off! Classes are starting soon, so make sure you start off the school year strong with these helpful tips.

1. Get the right amount of sleep.

It is important to slowly guide your mind and body back into the regimen. This first starts with a good night’s sleep and regulating your sleeping schedule. After all, summertime usually means a later bed time for people of all ages. Being well rested will provide you with high energy and a calm mindset to start your morning routine.

2. Eat a balanced diet.

Of course, eat a balanced and nutritional breakfast to start the day. It’s so easy to to skip breakfast with a hectic morning routine, but having eggs, oatmeal or a breakfast sandwich will give you the energy you need for hours until your afternoon lunch meal.

3. Use a daily planner to keep your schedule and your goals on track.

Using a planner is a great idea. Studies show that when a person writes something down such as a goal or dream, they become 42% more likely to accomplish that. So write down your class schedule, acting or dance class, and jot down personal goals as well. You will be surprised how much more you can accomplish being organized. Check out our story on how to keep your planner organized (and don’t forget to use colorful stickies and pens to make your planner your own).

4. Stock up on the essentials.

For high school and college students, be sure you have all school supplies necessary. Making a school supply list will be beneficial, so you don’t overspend and buy unnecessary items. Consider the basics: new notebooks, rent or buy textbooks, pens, pencils, highlighters, calculators, a backpack and any other mandatory supplies you will need for a successful school year.

5. If you’re in school, get familiar with your classes.

Get oriented, make sure to go to the first day of school and/or classes and read over the syllabus. Write down tests, quizzes and all assignments in a planner to stay ahead of your schedule. Don’t forget to write down dates and times of drama club meetings, rehearsals, and auditions, too! Need help managing your school responsibilities with your theatre ones? Check out our piece on how to balance theatre and coursework!

6. Think outside the box!

Be opened minded to making new friends and participating in different clubs and teams. School is truly a learning experience, and having a support system and friends from different backgrounds will help you learn networking skills, and you will learn to engage in a diverse group of people. You’ll have fun while meeting new people, and possibly even giving back to your community.



Need some advice? We’ve got you covered.


Christina Nicholson works for the Walt Disney World Company. She earned her B.A. in human communication and minor in mass communication from the University of Central Florida. She has worked as an editorial intern for a fashion magazine, and as a copywriter intern for an advertising agency. Christina enjoys acting, commercial modeling, yoga, outdoor adventures and writing.