As a kid, I had a tradition where I would make a "summer bucket list" each year. I wrote down all sorts of classic (and eccentric) to-do's for that summer. Most of the time, I would try to accomplish these goals with my best friend, but sometimes I was able to cross a few off by myself. Eventually, I grew out of this bucket list-making habit, thinking I was "too old" for such a thing. Boy, was I wrong.
I've realized that summers for which I made a summer bucket list were infinitely better- and not just because I was a responsibility-free middle schooler. Yeah, you might have a summer job or an internship, or you have to watch your little brother, but for those times when you're sitting with your BFFs at home and someone says "Well, what should we do?" the summer bucket list is perfect.
1. Get Off Your Butt
The first reason I strongly believe in creating a summer bucket list is simply because it helps you get off your butt. In the summer it's so so easy to get lazy and become a potato- a couch potato, that is. When you have a list of things just waiting for you do to, you feel a little guilty not crossing anything off.
2. Do Something New
Almost every summer bucket list I've made has things on it I've never done before, ranging from going to the city zoo to skinny dipping. There's all kinds of things I've never done. Having a list of these ideas helps me be a little spontaneous. Plus, they're way better than just sitting in your house with a friend or two. Get out and do something.
3. Leave the Tech Behind
This might be the most hypocritical advice ever, but do something that doesn't require your iPhone/laptop/iPad/Android/iWatch/iPod/beeper/PalmPilot/etc. I know, I know. It's hard. I, of all people, know this. And I know you've heard all the rants about our generation being "tech-obsessed," but they're not wrong. We need to learn to have fun without sitting on Tumblr all day sharing funny things other funny people said on the internet. Bring your phone to take pictures (you'll want them), but don't do things centered around technology. (Bonus points if you don't bring your phone at all and use a Polaroid to capture the memories.)
4. Make Memories
Take advantage of the few summers you have left without a full-time job and be a kid. I don't care if you're 13 or 42, you can still be a kid. Make hilarious memories your bridesmaids will put in their speeches at your wedding, make mistakes and laugh about them later, explore somewhere new, get excited about a new hobby, I don't care. Just make memories that will make summer 2015 one to remember. Now, go make your list!
