Unfortunately, going on a vacation to somewhere tropical and late nights downtown are not viable options during this time. COVID-19 has massively affected the plans and lifestyles of people everywhere but there are still ways to make the summer season enjoyable, as well as productive.

Take a Class

Due to changing circumstances many college students are not able to work and have extra time to spare during their summer months. College students can take advantage of this time to complete credits that will count towards their degree and allow them to graduate sooner or lighten their course load for the final semester. Alternatively, a class that is primarily for personal interest and enjoyment can be a beneficial experience as well. Regardless, this is the perfect opportunity to focus on educational advancement without the distraction and extra stress of a job. If paying for classes at your university is too pricey, look into exploring courses at a local community college to reduce costs.

Try Some DIY

Time to get crafty, productive, improve your culinary skills, and explore interests. Even though you may not be able to participate in all the "usual" summer pastimes you are able to expand your skillset. Possible options include painting, refurbishing furniture, doing tie-dye, creating a recipe from scratch, following how-to YouTube videos, testing out your bartending skills, learning a new language, revamping old clothing, and so much more. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination and openness to trying new things.

Get in Touch with Nature

In pre-pandemic life it was sometimes difficult to set aside time to engage in outdoor activities and disconnect from technology, schoolwork, or daily stressors. Now, there is ample time to go hiking, biking, fishing, walking, kayaking, canoeing, etc. If being active in nature is not of interest to you, find a way to relax outdoors while reading, journaling, drawing, or practicing mindfulness. The fresh air and scenery will not only be a refreshing break from the indoors, but also put in perspective how grateful we can be in our daily lives. Take a moment to step outside of your home and circulating thoughts in your mind, then step into nature.

Give Back to the Community

The past several months have evoked a whirlwind of anxiety, stress, pain, fear, and sadness for many people. Some people are not able to fully support their families due to losing a job, others do not have enough money for food, and additional people may be mourning the loss of a loved one. If you are in a position in which you feel comfortable helping, are able to help, and have the desire to help, explore methods in which you can aid people less fortunate. This may include donating money, sewing face masks, purchasing "buy now, use later" gift cards, supporting local farms by ordering produce boxes, donating blood, and sending thank-you letters to front-line workers. Most importantly, please prioritize your own health and well-being. You will not be able to help others if you have not taken adequate care of yourself.

Focus on Holistic Self-Improvement

Traditionally, New Years is the time of self-improvement, crash diets, and resolutions. Instead of focusing your efforts on short-term lifestyle changes, brainstorm ways in which you can improve yourself holistically for the continual future. There are a variety of areas in which you can improve upon such as mental health, physical health, relationships, and valuable skillsets. This is a gradual quest for consistent improvement, not a race for perfection. Be kind to yourself along the way.