Summer break is just about half over now, maybe a little bit more than that, but at this point, it’s very possible and pretty likely that you’ve started to run out of new things to do. Well, there’s no reason to fall into a rut or start feeling the midsummer blues. Let's start with that. The midsummer blues are that feeling of sadness when you realize that you’ve fallen into a pattern or run out of a novel and interesting things to do at this point in the summer. But there are some pretty simple ways to combat them.

1. Get out of the house

Try spending more time outside. Whether at the park or the beach, alone or with friends. Just spend time appreciating nature and get some nice fresh air, but you’ve got to be careful to take the necessary precautions when going outside. Always wear (and reapply) sunscreen and bring a lot of water. Sunburns seriously suck and dehydration can be really dangerous. Basically, be smart and be safe if this is the route you decide to take.

2. Start a new series

If you’re not really one to spend too much time outside for whatever reason, a new television show, book or movie series can be a great alternative. There are tons and tons of movies and TV shows out there to discover. It’s always nice to get lost in the worlds created for us by these various forms of entertainment. Plus, who doesn’t love a little bit of binge reading or binge watching every once in a while? If you need some suggestions, let me know! I’m more than happy to help out with that.

3. Pick up some new hobbies

If you’re just going to be lounging about being bored, that’s a great time to try some new hobbies. Maybe you’re a great artist and you just don’t know it yet. Or you’ve got some other cool hidden talent. Alternatively, you could pick up something that you’ve been wanting to try. For example, learning to play a new instrument or trying your hand at photography or any of the other million things there are out there to try. There’s really no reason to just veg out and waste a bunch of time.

4. Explore

This is kind of related to my first point about getting out more, but going out and exploring the area around where you live is a ton of fun. You never know what kind of cool and cute places you’ll find around you. Plus, you very well might meet some new people and make some new friends. Or go out with your friends and find some fun new places to hang out.

Once you’re out of your midsummer funk, you’ll feel a lot better. And you’ll potentially have come out of it with some new skills, new friends, or some new series that you really enjoy. I hope you decide to take some of these suggestions and wish you all the best in getting out of those midsummer blues.