For many of us, summer is less than a month away. If done right, summer is a time to rejuvenate and help mold yourself into an even better version of you. However, it is so easy to let summer pass you buy in a blink of an eye by sitting on the couch munching and binging on Netflix. If you take these simple steps, I think you will put your summer on the road to success.
1. Get a job you're passionate about
If you have a lot of free time on your hands, you will be more likely to spend your time wastefully. Your days will seem like they have an endless amount of hours in them, until you find that you have wasted them away. Having a summer job will help you to manage your time wisely. If you have work from 5 p.m. and on, you will get done what you need to during the day, knowing that you have to work around your work schedule. You shouldn't have just any job though. Make sure it's a job or internship that you are truly passionate about. Going to work can be exciting if you make it that way.
2. Workout and Eat Well
Any college student knows that it's much easier to stay on top of your workout game when you are being fed home-cooked meals versus the dining hall's latest specialty. Eating fresh foods will not only make you ready for hot summer days, they will also help you to feel your best. On top of eating well, find a summer workout that you can maintain. Instead of going to the gym, take a power run outside while it is still nice.
3. Roadtrip
"Sometimes, all it takes is a short trip to your favorite place to get some well needed thinking space and clarity." A change of scenery can do wonders for the soul. If your usual summer routine starts to get old, grab your best friend, a good playlist, and hit the road. Getting a change of place and perspective is sometimes all you need to make a change.
4. Budget
While you must budget and save up for the necessities, it is important to have spending money for all the little things that make life good: that new sundress you have been eyeing, a good read for the pool, or that workout class that keeps you feeling your best. Keep track of what you spend money on during the week and budget your money for those things. Then, think about what you would like to save up for, and keep extra money around to pay for those.
5. Always have time for "Me Time"
Each day I take an hour for myself. I do one thing that will make my day a little brighter. It can be anything from grabbing your favorite cup of coffee or reading a good book. I think it is really important to take this time for yourself to regather and regroup. Summer days and nights can be filled with unforgettable moments with friends and family. But make sure you do not forget your biggest fan: yourself.
Don't let your summer pass you by only to of realized it was an OK three months. Make this summer the one where you accomplish those goals you were too busy to accomplish during the school year. These steps have always helped me live out my summer to the fullest, I hope you take something from them, too.