Sir Godfrey Gregg

The holiday break is the perfect time to establish reading and learning habits without the pressure of grades or tests. Habits formed during relaxed periods often stick better than those created under stress. If you can make reading and daily learning part of your holiday routine, you’ll carry these valuable habits back into the school year.

Successful people across all fields share one common trait: they’re continuous learners who read regularly. They understand that growth doesn’t happen only in formal settings. The most accomplished individuals in any field—business, science, arts, sports—dedicate time to reading and learning every single day, regardless of whether they’re in school or not.

Start building this habit now while you have flexibility. Choose a consistent time each day—maybe right after breakfast, during the afternoon, or before bed. Pick up a book or review your study materials for 20-30 minutes. Do this every day, and by the end of the holiday, you’ll have created a routine that feels natural rather than forced.

Habits become easier with repetition. The first few days might require willpower, but soon reading becomes something you look forward to rather than something you force yourself to do. You’re training your brain to expect and enjoy this daily mental engagement. This habit will serve you throughout your life, long after school ends.

Think of these holidays as a training ground for the person you want to become. High achievers aren’t people who study only when required—they’re people who’ve made learning a lifestyle. You have weeks ahead with no tests or assignments, which paradoxically makes it the ideal time to develop learning habits that will set you apart from your peers. Start now, be consistent, and watch how this simple habit transforms not just your academic performance but your entire approach to personal growth.