Whether you are doing an internship, having a part time job, or just taking it easy, summers are a great chance to learn and blossom. The weather is nice, the sun is shining, but it is remarkably easy to get lost during this time off. I know sometimes, doing nothing at home can be mind numbing and boring truthfully. Sometimes for others, it’s hard to function without a set schedule and time constraints. Before you know it, school is about to start and you feel as though your summer vacation was unproductive and unrestful. There are many ways you can make the most of your time off, whether that means optimizing on work or taking some time to focus on yourself.
Time Management
We have all shared the experience of sitting down on the last day of summer and wondering where our summer went. This is an experience that is too common. We want to try to avoid that feeling this year and it’s all possible with a little time management. One great way is to split up your summer into various different categories such as: personal development, school/work, and socialization to name a few(Chen, 2021). Personal development refers to some personal goals or achievements that you want to reach. Some people want to get fit, others make it a mission to read more, anything that helps you as a person. School and work development refers to anything that can help better you at school, such as preparing for the new year, or working on your career and finances. I know that during summer, I try to get a jump on some of the syllabi and see if I can begin to read some coursework at my own pace. I also utilized the summer to work more hours and save up for both new experiences, and financing future expenses. I also know that many of you are also interning this summer and that’s great! An internship is definitely a great way to get career experience while also making some extra cash if it is paid. However, make sure not to lose yourself in the workload. Remember, this position, while important, should not consume your entire freedom. You should still try to pencil in some time to see friends, go out for dinners, or even spend some time unwinding watching a new show. Socialization is truly the key to summer. Especially with students, summer is a great chance to reconnect and rekindle some old friendships. Realistically speaking, who knows how frequently you can do that during the school year.
Planning your summer out will ensure that you make the most out of your time at home. When we were younger, many people might have experienced going away to a summer or day camp. These camps always had agenda’s to make summer fun-filled. That agenda building need not stop after we grow up. I like to set goals as to what I want to do in the summer. One of my summer goals last year was to increase my steps on the daily to at least 10,000 a day. Not only did it make me go outside and experience nature more, but it also allowed me to stay fit instead of melting in my bed. Some melt is good here and there to unwind, but too much can lead to adverse effects like increased grogginess and changes in mood. Another goal I had was to go to a water park, which I have not been to since before the pandemic. It was a great way to spend time with a friend who I rarely saw before I had to move to the DMV.
Relaxing and Self Care
Some of you might remember our March post about how to take care of yourself and how you are your most important asset. This may come as a refresher, but also might offer some new insight. You should absolutely not feel bad, or made to feel bad, about choosing to opt for a summer of laze and relaxation. In a way, that is also productive!
Taking care of your own mind is good for your mental health. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, self care is about taking care of your mind and psyche(n.d.) This means catching up on sleep, spending some time outside, and eating healthy and delicious food. My favorite part of summer used to be taking long walks next to the boardwalk and getting an ice cream before going home. When school is in session, it’s easy to forget to take care of ourselves in an effort to balance the external world. Sometimes a restful summer is just what the doctor prescribed.
Closing Thoughts
Summer is a great time to relax and renew, but is also a great tool to better yourself in any way you seem fit. I have always utilized my summers to work and get some extra cash so I can hang out with friends after my morning shifts are done. It was a great way to balance not only having something in my pocket but also seeing friends who I have not had a chance to spend time with during the school year. However you choose to spend your summer, make sure that it is a summer to remember! I always try to go away and experience something new every summer, whether it be going on a roadtrip or exploring new parts of my neighborhood. Just always make sure to pack some SPF and stay hydrated! So, how do you plan on spending your summer?
Sources:
Chen, K. (2021). 7 Time Management Tips for the Summer. Rosethorns and Honeydew. https://rosethornsandhoneydew.com/2021/07/7-time-management-tips-for-the-summer/
NIH. (n.d.). Caring for Your Mental Health. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health
