This summer, most of us will find ourselves either staring at the TV binge watching a Netflix series, or spending countless hours working a job or internship. While there's nothing wrong with earning a few extra bucks or relaxing, we have to remember that as college students, we need to enjoy our summer breaks before entering the real world. So instead of thinking about nothing but your new job or doing absolutely nothing, try aiming for a few new goals this summer, or just treat yourself.
1. Be spontaneous
Embrace the unknown and do something you've never done before. Whether it's going on an impromptu adventure or just breaking your routine, it's your summer break, and you should take advantage of it by exploring something different.
2. Exercise every day
Sure, working out isn't something we all enjoy, but being involved in some form of physical activity every day will not only get you in shape for that upcoming beach trip, but will also clear out your mind and help out your overall well-being.
3. Spend time outside
A lot of people spend their summers cooped up in an office or inside staying away from the heat. While there's nothing wrong with wanting to keep cool, don't forget there are many more things to do outside while the weather is still nice. Get a hammock under the shade, hang out by the pool, or catch fireflies at night; just make sure you enjoy the heat before it's gone, again.
4. Read a good book
It can be your favorite book since high school or something you've been meaning to read for months, either way, reading is a great way to relax. Plus, you'll get to read something other than that expensive textbook you barely touched last semester.
5. Have a bonfire
Bonfires are a great a way to get together with friends and enjoy the nice weather because before you know it, it will be too cold to go outside and midterms will be looming over you again. Plus, you have an excuse to make s'mores.
6. Learn something new
Whether it's a new skill you've learned at work or something historical about somewhere you've traveled to, or even if you buy Rosetta Stone and learn a new language, you won't regret it. Some of us have a lot of time on our hands during the summer, and that time could be spent learning something you've never known.
7. Volunteer
While you should spend time taking care of yourself over the summer, don't forget to take care of others. It can be a mission trip to Costa Rica, volunteering to deliver meals on wheels, donating to a charity, or even something as small as donating your old clothes to Goodwill, but make sure to give some of your time to helping someone else out.
8. Spend time out on the water
So maybe you still haven't lost the Freshman 15 (even if you are about to be a Junior) or maybe you still don't have that six pack; don't let your insecurities get in the way, be sure to hang out by the lake, pool, or, if you're lucky, the beach. You won't regret the memories you'll make water skiing or snorkeling, but you will regret missing new memories because you're afraid of your swimsuit.
9. Travel somewhere
Some people may be lucky enough to travel to a foreign country or go on a cruise, and some of us may not get that opportunity anytime soon, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try to travel. Go to a city nearby, visit your grandparents who are two states away, or better yet, hop in the car with friends and just go wherever the road takes you. Even if you can't afford an expensive vacation, don't let that get in your way of exploring new places.
10. Enjoy your time off
Pamper yourself with new clothes or gadgets, spend as much time with your friends and family as possible, and if you can, go or do something you've never done before. Just make sure you enjoy these next couple of months before it's back to school, and make this the best summer yet.
