Over the past few weeks, many of us have experienced a shift in our daily routines due to recess, a period where schools and workplaces have temporarily paused activities. While this time off can feel unsettling, it also offers a rare opportunity for reflection, self-improvement, and growth.

Instead of merely maintaining our mental health during this time, I believe we can use this break to thrive. It’s a chance to embrace new opportunities and develop habits that will benefit us long after the break ends.

Sure, your usual activities like socializing with friends or going to the gym might be on hold, but this might be the perfect moment to explore new possibilities.

• Can’t meet up with friends for weekend hangouts? Maybe it’s time to reconnect with old friends you’ve lost touch with.

• No gym classes to attend? Perhaps it’s a great opportunity to explore new forms of exercise, like yoga or pilates, via online tutorials.

• Your book club can’t meet? What if you used this time to start writing that book you’ve always dreamed of creating?

The point is: why not view this disruption as a chance to improve your daily life and routines?

Here are 10 ways you can turn this recess into a time for personal development.

1. Take on an Exercise Challenge

With fitness routines disrupted, it’s easy to get out of the habit of exercising. However, this break provides an excellent opportunity to get creative and establish new fitness habits.

Recently, I’ve seen people from all over the world participating in fun and unique challenges. For instance, two friends—living in different countries—challenged each other to do 100 push-ups a day, and they supported each other through FaceTime.

Always wanted to try yoga or pilates? Now might be the perfect time to explore these practices using free YouTube tutorials.

2. Start a Podcast

Podcasts have exploded in popularity, and starting one might be easier than you think! For example, a good friend of mine and I launched a podcast about children’s books, where we discuss our favorite (and least favorite) reads. It’s been a great way to connect weekly and share our thoughts on parenting and literature.

A podcast could also be a fun way to connect with others. Find a friend who shares your interests and start a regular podcast about something you’re both passionate about!

3. Cultivate a Mindfulness Practice

Many people want to start a mindfulness practice but struggle to find time. Now, with the break in our regular schedules, this could be the perfect moment to dive into it. I’ve written a beginner’s guide to mindfulness here, and I also recommend the book How to Sit Like a Buddha to help you get started.

4. Reconnect with Old Friends

Just because you can’t meet in person doesn’t mean you can’t be social. Recess can actually create more time for meaningful connections. Use this opportunity to reach out to old friends you’ve been meaning to catch up with. Maybe they’d be open to a weekly FaceTime or phone call?

Fun example: A friend recently told me he and his wife had a virtual double date with another couple, playing Scattergories over Zoom!

5. Build a Reading Habit

Many people wish they had more time to read. Now, with fewer distractions, it’s the perfect chance to dive into that book list you’ve been putting off. Not only that, but this time might help you form a lasting reading habit that continues long after your routine returns to normal.

Quick tip: Start by reading what you enjoy, rather than what you think you “should” read. And don’t forget about audiobooks—they count too!

6. Start a Newsletter

Email newsletters have gained popularity, and starting one can be a fun, personal way to engage with others. A friend of mine recently started a newsletter sharing baking recipes with her family, sending weekly updates on her kitchen experiments.

Starting a family newsletter can also keep loved ones in the loop with fun stories, pictures, and updates.

Tools like ConvertKit or Mailchimp make it easy to create and send newsletters, and they even offer free plans for beginners.

7. Get Organized

While not the most exciting suggestion, organizing your home during recess can be incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s decluttering the garage or setting up a functional home office, now’s a great time to tackle those long-term to-do list items. A well-organized space can make starting new habits easier and more enjoyable in the long run.

8. Learn a New Skill

Always wanted to learn something new? Recess is the perfect time to dive into hobbies or skills you’ve been meaning to pick up. Whether it’s playing the banjo, learning watercolor painting, or trying a new language, there are plenty of tutorials online to get you started.

For example, I’ve always wanted to learn traditional Chinese painting and now feels like the time to take a shot at it.

9. Create a Business Plan

Have you been dreaming of starting your own business? If you’ve been putting it off due to your regular busy schedule, now’s a perfect time to map out your business idea. Think about your target audience, your unique selling point, and how you might market and distribute your product or service.

Check out podcasts like The Indie Hackers Podcast and Smart Passive Income for inspiration and insights into how others have launched successful side businesses.

10. Reflect on Your Life Goals

Take a moment to think big: what do you want to accomplish in your lifetime? This break could be an ideal time to reflect and set your most important goals. Write down your 100 Life Goals—from learning a new language to running a marathon or traveling the world. Simply clarifying your goals can help you make progress toward them.

Taking Advantage of Recess for Personal Growth

While recess might have disrupted your regular routine, it doesn’t mean it has to be wasted time. On the contrary, it’s an opportunity to take charge of your personal growth. Whether it’s starting a podcast, rekindling old friendships, or tackling a fitness challenge, you have the power to turn this time into something meaningful.

Let’s embrace this break as a chance to grow, reflect, and come out stronger.