5 Tips to have an AWESOME summer!
Hello and good day to you, my friends! Is there anything better than summer? I have some fond memories of summer. Just feeling the burden of school being lifted was a huge deal. Having free time, more time with friends, summer work, summer flings, campouts, the beach, family time, getting a tan, road trips, vacations, rest and relaxation, more time to play and hang out. Yeahhhh!
But maybe you don’t have such positive associations with summer. Either way, regardless of your past summers, the reality is that there’s a summer before you right now… right here. And I want to help you make it grand, fun, meaningful, awesome, and memorable.
I know it’s a tall order, and I can be a bit of an idealist, but I want you to come out of this summer better, wiser, tanner, happier, more connected. Maybe even a little richer (we all need a little green, right?). Maybe with a new hobby, more commitment, feeling better, thinking better. I mean, come on. Why not? Why not dream with me a bit and take a few steps in an awesome direction?
So, I’ve got some tips for you. Like I’ve told you before, when your brain has direction, when it has something to aim for, it’s happier and runs a bit cleaner and more effectively. Now, some of you may be "live by the seat of your pants" kind of people, and some may be more the planning type. Trust me, I don’t want to take that from you. In fact, I’d say embrace it. There’s plenty of room in your days and weeks to do a bit of both.
HERE ARE MY 5 TIPS FOR AN AWESOME SUMMER!
Friends!
If you’ve got them, spend time with them: playing, hanging out, vibing, gaming, camping, traveling, working… whatever it is, be outgoing and prioritize face-to-face time. Most of the time, no activity is even needed. Just being together is enough. Nurture those relationships. Feed them time, attention, fun, games, high-fives, hugs, compliments, etc. Make time and give your time to expand those friendships.
If you’re lacking in this area, no fear. I’ve been there. I moved many times when I was your age and felt out of the loop, disconnected. If that’s your situation, make it a goal this summer to grow your circle deliberately. Be on the lookout for opportunities and take them when they come. The best way? Put yourself where people are: a job, a club, a community church, a gym, events, sports, fairs. Get creative. Don’t start with excuses or blame where you live. Work with what you have. You can make friends. Then make plans and go get ’em.
Make a bucket list!
Even better, make one with a sibling, family, or friends. Keep it simple, fun, and adventurous. Name it something original (I’m terrible at naming things, so you do it!). List 3, 5, 10, or 20 items. Things like:
Be specific, write it down, and make it visible.
Learn something new!
Summer is a wonderful time to grow. Remember: your purpose in life is to expand, evolve, and challenge yourself. When we’re growing, we’re happier. Period. So this summer, call yourself out and commit to learning something new: a sport, game, hobby, instrument, or skill. Maybe something you’ve thought, "Man, that’d be cool…" Well, no more procrastination, fear, or doubt. It’s time to brainstorm and take action.
Ideas to spark your brain:
-
Learn drums, tennis, Rubik’s cube, painting, golf
-
Train for a 5K or 10K
-
Try mountain biking, rock climbing, sewing
-
Master BBQ or pancake-making
-
Learn to code, do yoga, or box
Make your life rich. Fill it with things your future self (and future family) will think are cool. Do it. Don’t put it off.
Make some money.
The reality is, you need to learn how to make and manage money. Money isn’t evil. It’s time, effort, and freedom. Treat it respectfully, and you’ll have plenty. Treat it with disdain, and you’ll struggle. Start using your noggin to earn a little this summer.
-
Get a part-time job
-
Do odd jobs in your neighborhood
-
Help parents/neighbors with projects
-
Sell cookies door-to-door
Open a checking/savings account and save up. It’s part of becoming independent. No fear. Ask for help, talk to friends/family, and go for it.
Read a book this summer.
"But I just got out of school. I don’t want to see a book for a decade!" Easy, amigo. I’ve got your back. Find a fun book. Something that interests you, maybe a friend’s recommendation. Any genre works: fantasy, dystopian, self-help, adventure, horror, historical fiction. No excuses. Hit the library or your phone, grab a book, and enjoy. Summer mornings/nights are perfect for reading something cool.
My friends, I’m so excited for you. I’m not hijacking your summer or sucking out the fun. I want you to live deeply, to "suck out all the marrow of life." Give yourself loose direction this summer, and you’ll be happier, richer (in every way), and more fulfilled.
Think, "Okay, maybe I can do this…" Then take a step today, right now. Grab paper or your phone and spend five minutes planning:
These five minutes will make your entire summer better. It’s easy. Let’s go.
Now get out there and seize the day. No, seize the whole summer, my friend. Let’s make this one unforgettable. You absolutely can do this. No excuses, just a little planning and creativity.
Want help? Reach out. We’ll guide you. Be brave, be wise, and let’s get ’er done. See you soon!
Next
