“In the depth of winter, I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer.” – Albert Cammus
As children, we could not wait until the last day of school! Though for some of us it meant not seeing the majority of our friends within the two months to follow, it also meant plenty of FUN and FROLICKING with the friends we would see. We anticipated and enjoyed the sleepovers, movie nights and beach days, long “after hour” telephone conversations…Remember? Ahhh yes! That feeling of nostalgia.
But as reality creeps back in, we think if only it were still that simple! We’re adults now with a ton of responsibilities and jobs that demand most of our time. Unfortunately, summer for some of us still means work — the only change might be that of climate. Rest becomes a taboo word or synonym for complacency when there are still so many things to do!
But there is good news. You can ENJOY summer even if your days are spent on your job, or doing a makeup course at school. These SIX creative ways to make the most of your summer are sure to provide some excitement, fun and relaxation in the midst of your work schedule; if you are willing to make the most of the bit of time you have available.
1. Make your lunch break a “happy-hour”
Loosen up your diet a little and indulge in the treats you would indulge in if you indeed wereon a summer vacation. Instead of a sandwich or the usual rice and peas, have a burger, or pizza or a huge salad with all the good trimmings. In addition to this, try having lunch somewhere other than at your desk, preferably outdoors or somewhere you wouldn’t usually go and maybe even have a friend or work colleague tag along. You can alternate your “happy-hour” lunch dates at least three times weekly to stay within that summer mindset. Always remember to try something new for lunch.
2. Have a casual dress day
According to what your job stipulates, you can dedicate at least one day to switching up your wardrobe with attire that is more relaxed or comfortable.
3. Make the best of your weekends
You may not be able to travel like most, but you can sure live at least one weekend like a ‘tourist’ by dedicating it to nothing but fun and relaxation. Choose a reasonably priced hotel and have a short stay or day-cation with some friends or a loved one, or you can simply spend each day doing a fun filled event such as the beach, movies etc. You are sure to stroll back into work feeling refreshed and ready to work…with your next happy–hour to look forward to to help you de-stress again.
4. Switch up your playlist
On your way to your place of work, play something upbeat and uplifting that will carry you through the day. You’d be surprised what music can do for you. If you can multi task, try wearing headphones while on the job. Let it keep you upbeat.
5. Be adventurous
Try doing something that you’d ‘never‘ do. Take a road trip or a scenic bus ride if you’reusually a car person. Visit some tourist attractions that you probably would never have considered. Try a sport, something new at the gym; as long as it is something you’ve never done or haven’t done in a while.
6. Have a rest day where resting is almost all you do. Call up the godparents or grandparents for the kids and have a day of rest for yourself.
“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.“ John Lubbock
Be a part of summer this year! And make this “working summer“ a summer that works for you, one that is void of all the complaining, I’m sure you won’t regret it.
Enjoy!!