As we enter a period of recess—whether due to school breaks, a temporary pause in work activities, or simply a shift in the usual routine—many of us are adapting to new ways of working and managing our time. For researchers, this time might seem like a setback, with research labs closed, in-person conferences canceled, and face-to-face meetings postponed. But even if you can’t move forward on your current project, that doesn’t mean your time has to be wasted.

Here are several ways you can remain productive during your break without feeling the pressure to continue “business as usual.”

1. Stay Updated with the Latest Research

You’ve probably bookmarked countless articles you’ve meant to read, or scanned abstracts quickly without fully diving in. Now is the perfect time to revisit them. Take a break from the daily news cycle and catch up on the latest research in your field. Use your reference manager or academic library to explore new literature, and take this opportunity to dig deeper into areas you’ve been meaning to explore.

2. Attend Virtual Events

While attending conferences and seminars in person may not be possible right now, many organizations are offering virtual events. This includes webinars and online workshops that cover a wide range of topics, from specific research fields to self-care, mental health, and career development. The best part? You can attend these events without worrying about travel logistics, accommodation, or other obstacles that often come with attending in-person gatherings.

3. Revisit and Revive Old Projects

Is there a shelved project you’ve always meant to finish? Now’s the time to dust off the data, revisit your research notes, and give it another go. A fresh perspective could help you see new angles or insights. Take a look at recent publications in the field and consider how your existing work can complement or extend them. A shift in focus could breathe new life into your old project.

4. Learn a New Skill

Is there a particular aspect of your work that you’ve always wanted to improve? Maybe you’ve struggled with conducting thorough literature reviews, or you’re looking to sharpen your project management skills. Online platforms like Coursera, edX, Udemy, and Udacity offer a wealth of courses to choose from. Many even offer certificates, so you can add them to your CV. Now’s the perfect time to take a course that will help you tackle your research with even more confidence once things return to normal.

5. Focus on Writing

If you’ve found it difficult to find time for writing while juggling lab work or teaching responsibilities, now’s your chance to focus on your writing. Whether you’re a PhD student drafting your dissertation or an established researcher working on a manuscript or grant proposal, this time can be used for focused writing sessions. Block out uninterrupted time early in the morning or late in the evening when others in the household are busy. If distractions are a concern, there are plenty of apps and bootcamps designed to help you stay on task and reach your writing goals.

6. Build and Strengthen Connections

With social distancing and more time spent at home, many people are more active on social media. Take this opportunity to network and build your online presence. Whether you’re connecting with potential collaborators, reaching out to colleagues, or simply participating in discussions in your field, social media is a great place to foster relationships. The break from regular work might make people more open to virtual conversations and new opportunities.

7. Don’t Forget to Rest

Finally, while it’s great to stay productive, it’s equally important to avoid burnout. As Fay Lin, a mental health advocate, recently tweeted: “It’s okay to struggle with productivity, mourn the experiences that were canceled due to social distancing, and feel anxious about the uncertainty.” Use this time to reset and recharge. Take a break from the hustle—catch up on some much-needed rest, engage in self-care, enjoy quality time with family, or simply relax with a good book. Life as a researcher can often be overwhelming, so it’s important to hit the reset button when you have the chance.

Additional Tips for Researchers:

• Join Online Research Communities: If you feel isolated, consider joining an online community of researchers in your field. Platforms like ResearchGate or specific online forums allow you to stay connected with peers, share insights, and ask for feedback on your work.

• Make a List of Long-Term Goals: Without the usual pressures of work or deadlines, it can be a great time to revisit your career aspirations. What are your long-term research goals? What skills would you like to learn? Setting these intentions now can help you focus on the bigger picture.

Take Care of Yourself and Your Research

In the end, it’s important to acknowledge that recesses, while disruptive, don’t have to be unproductive. Whether you’re enhancing your skills, catching up on research, or simply allowing yourself some time for self-care, this period can be valuable in multiple ways. Don’t pressure yourself to “achieve” every moment—use it to recharge and focus on what matters most.