As we start back to work after a summer holiday weekend or vacation, it can be a bit tough to come “back to reality”. And, when you have a full-time job, it can be difficult to prioritize finding time to enjoy the outdoors and a little free time. We believe it’s important to make time to enjoy the summer weather and activities with friends and family and make time for yourself this summer. Here are a few tips for making the most out of your summer while working full time:
1. Utilize your lunch break to get out of the office.
If you’re guilty of working through lunch, summer is the perfect time to use your full break to recharge and enjoy the sunny season. Keep a couple of foldable camping chairs at the office so you and a co-worker can catch some rays while you eat outside, go to a local coffeeshop and sit on a covered patio, take a walk around the block, run a quick errand, or go grab that fruit smoothie that is calling your name!
2. Be prepared for last-minute summer fun.
When summertime hits, opportunities for fun can often be spontaneous! Be prepared for last-minute pool invites, lake visits, or walks at the park after work. Keep a bag full of summer supplies for your favorite summer activities in your home and in your car so you’re covered when the opportunities arise! We know it’s never fun to be at a last-minute pool party without proper sunscreen! OUCH!
3. Plan an office outing.
This tip is especially helpful if you are a leader in your organization. Give your team a chance to recharge and team-build by planning an office outing. We have worked with many offices who have gone out to eat together at their favorite local restaurant. Some teams have enjoyed activities like bowling or taking in a ballgame, some have taken a day together at the lake, and some have gone on trips as a reward for hitting their end of the year goals. The key is being together out of the office with a change of scenery so your brains can refresh, and you can be in community with one another!
4. Join a professional association or volunteer group.
During the summer, many professional networking groups have fun events like outdoor mixers and happy hours. Find a professional group in your area and make networking fun this summer. Or spend time volunteering for one of your local area nonprofits. This is a great way to pour into an area that’s meaningful to you and to bring about more awareness to your business as you are out in the community.
5. Be strategic with your time off.
Summer is the perfect time to take some days off from work, and we can be strategic around using those vacation days around a holiday weekend. You can make a potentially long weekend longer without having to use up all your vacation time. Half days of vacation can also be a smart and beneficial way to take a break from work. It's amazing how much you can do with four extra hours, isn’t it! If you want an early weekend but don't want to burn up your vacation days too quickly, try taking a half day on a Friday instead of using a full day off.
Incorporating these simple steps can help you make the most of your summer while working full-time. You work hard in your business and career; remember, it’s also important to spend time disconnecting and re-energizing, even if it’s just a few minutes of a break within a workday. In fact, research has shown that ultraviolet radiation from the sun releases endorphins, or “feel-good” hormones, so taking a few extra minutes in the sun during your workday can help make all the difference!
Wishing you a productive and joy-filled summer,
