By Lauren Murray

Phineas and Ferb said it best: “The annual problem for our generation is finding a good way to spend [summer].” Summers come and go fast, and often many of us wish there was more that we did. We sleep the day away, staying up for limited hours, and then we do it all again. While those types of days have their moments, it’s important to seize every opportunity to improve. Summer is a great time to focus on yourself and your personal goals. I believe there are a few things that can be useful in maximizing your time during the summer while also enjoying yourself.

WAKE UP EARLY

I know this doesn’t sound appealing, but it can make an impactful difference. There are 24 hours in a day, meaning there are 24 hours to be active. Ample sleep is important, but waking up early offers the opportunity to get more accomplished. It presents the chance to develop a morning routine as well, which can promote stability and motivation. Early can mean anything from 5-8 am depending on your schedule, but I find that being completely ready by 10 am is a great way to be productive throughout the rest of the day. Set a routine that can include waking up, showering, eating a healthy breakfast, going on a walk, and anything else that will put you in the right mindset. Even though it may not sound appealing, there are added benefits.

Kinga Cichewicz on Unsplash

MAKE HEALTH A PRIORITY

Health comes in many forms: physical, mental, emotional. It is important to make each of them a priority in one way or another. If you struggle to find the time, health would be perfect to implement into your morning routine. You don’t have to be an athlete or zen to incorporate healthy habits. Go on a twenty-minute walk, write in a journal for ten minutes, or write three things you are grateful for. These are quick, easy examples of what you can do every day to improve your health state. It may seem inconvenient to keep up, but realize that these activities don’t have to take too much of your time. Spending 10 minutes on each category will only take 30 minutes out of your day– not a substantial amount of time. I recommend putting more focus on your health, especially with more free time during the summer.

Emma Simpson on Unsplash

PICK UP A NEW HOBBY

Is there anything that you have wanted to learn but never had the time to? Summer is the best time to start. With more free time, you can put aside an hour every day to pick up a new sport, craft, or habit. You can tailor your hobbies to your interests, which can improve your overall mood. If you want to play guitar, do it. If you want to learn how to skateboard, do it. If you want to learn embroidery, do it. There are no limits to what you can experience. Find something that you can be passionate about and stick with it. It may be challenging and frustrating, but the outcome is worth it. Not only can it make you well-rounded, but it can also be a skill to impress other people.

Giulia Bertelli on Unsplash

SAY YES MORE

For some, saying yes comes naturally. Living adventurously and going out is how some people organically live their lives, but for more introverted people, it can be more difficult. It may take getting out of your comfort zone, but I implore you to say yes more. When people invite you to the beach, to go shopping, to watch a movie, to go swimming, say yes. Even if it is sporadic and out of character, say yes. Memories are created in experiences. Some of my favorite memories are when I did something impromptu with my friends and just went with the flow. Summer is about having fun and experiencing the beauty of friendships. Go on more adventures, say yes, and live life in the best way possible.

Ross Parmly on Unsplash

BE PROACTIVE

My message this entire time has been to be proactive. No, I am not talking about doing work or summer classes all the time; I am talking about making progress. Any progress moves you forward and allows for continued growth even in times of rest. All the topics I mentioned previously are examples of being proactive. There is so much to accomplish every day if you are willing to get up and get going. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Simply eating your breakfast is proactive by fueling your body to give you the energy needed for the day. Use summer to grow in any ways you see as necessary. 

Domenico Loia on Unsplash

You don’t have to be as ambitious as Phineas and Ferb to make the most out of your summer. Go out and partake in what you enjoy, and the rest will fall into place.