THE WEEK BETWEEN CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR The presents are unwrapped, the holiday feasts are digested, and the New Year’s ball hasn’t dropped yet. Welcome to the week between Christmas and New Year’s—a stretch of time that somehow feels like a void, a blur, and a vacation all rolled into one. This strange week has a peculiar energy, leaving many people wondering, “What day is it?” and “Should I be doing something productive, or is this my chance to relax?” If you’ve ever felt like this week is a black hole of time, you’re not alone. WHY THIS WEEK FEELS SO WEIRD There’s no other time of year quite like it. The routines we cling to most of the year are shattered. Schools are out, many workplaces slow down, and the rhythms of daily life are suspended. Instead of Monday through Friday, it’s “the day after Christmas,” “the one before New Year’s Eve,” or just “somewhere in between.” ![]() Psychologists suggest this awkwardness stems from the lack of structure. Our brains crave routine, and when that’s removed, it can feel disorienting. Add in the lingering excitement from Christmas and the anticipation of New Year’s, and you’ve got a recipe for a weird limbo. WHAT DO PEOPLE EVEN DO THIS WEEK The week between holidays sees an interesting mix of behaviors. Some people embrace the laziness, binging shows, wearing pajamas until noon, and working their way through leftovers. Others see it as the perfect time to gear up for the new year—setting resolutions, cleaning out closets, or tackling to-do lists.
There are also unique seasonal activities people save for this time:
LAZY OR PRODUCTIVE? HOW TO SPEND THIS WEEK Whether you’re ready to hibernate or hustle, this week offers plenty of options. Here’s how to make the most of it: For the lazy, but happy:
For the get-it-done types:
EMBRACING THE LIMBO Instead of stressing about whether you’re being productive enough, give yourself permission to lean into the weirdness of this week. It’s okay to rest, and it’s also okay to check off a few things from your list. The magic of this time lies in its flexibility—you can make it whatever you want it to be. So whether you’re lounging in pajamas or crafting a master plan for the next year, remember: this week might be strange, but it’s also special.
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