The school year is always a mess, to say the least. You want to try new things and go to new places but you also need to devote your time to studying and homework, meetings and jobs; suddenly you find those personal aspirations taking a back burner.
When summer comes around, your time is finally freed up, even if you are still taking a class, the load has lightened and you can make time for yourself and all the goals you made during the year, all of the things you saw on Instagram and promised yourself you would try to do too, now is the time!
I'm sure there are a million things you have down on your bucket list this summer but here are eight that you could dedicate specifically to improving your own life -- it's you time, baby.
1. Fitness
Keeping your body healthy is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. You can still make this fun by taking different classes like yoga, pilates, or cycling, you can join a fitness program like CrossFit to be amongst other people trying to improve their shape or you can join a gym if you prefer working out on your own. You can use this summer to get your body as fit as you would like so you can feel more energetic, healthy, and confident throughout the year.
2. Art
This summer I really want to make the time to express myself creatively and work on different projects just for me. No deadlines or expectations but just getting crafty for the fun of it, it is also super calming. You can try painting or handwriting, knitting or sewing, you might enjoy writing for fun, journals or poems, anything that inspires you. Pick a project this summer and see it out, you will also feel a great sense of accomplishment each time because you finished something only you told yourself you had to do.
3. Reading
I always go to the library and bookstores and I see so many books I would love to read over to cover. Even in my room I have some books I never got to finish... or start. During the school year, textbook readings take up all your time and there is never enough minutes in the dayton get through a book you chose to read for your won interests. Choose a book this summer that speaks to you and don't let yourself be interrupted enough to keep yourself from reading it all the way, find out what happens. even if you think reading isn't your thing, you would be surprised the beneficial effect it can have on you to escape into a whole other world for a few hours.
4. Beauty
This summer take the time to work on all those make up ideas! You can finally sit down and watch all those tutorials, experiment with different looks and products ( taking selfies along the way of course), and just have fun with it! You can detox your hair, maybe take some time away from heat products and let your natural hair get healthier this summer. Do whatever you think will help you be happy and confident about your appearance based on your own opinions, not the norms of others.
5. Finding your passion
During the school year everything becomes rather habitual. Every week you have to do those readings, write that reflections, submit that lab report, and more. Over break you can dare to try new things all the time. Each week you can try a different hobby, learn of a new talent you didn't even know you had before. You can try to dance, learn new languages, learn an instrument, and way more. Who knows? It may change your life completely.
6. Choosing a career
This break from school can be a great time to do some research into your future field. No matter what year you are in, graduation is always too close and it can never hurt to be prepared. Don't stress yourself out but look into some different options, think about your strengths, your talents, your personality and what type of career you could see yourself working in the future. Then look for some jobs and opportunities, it never hurts to start soon!
7. Spending time with family
Whether you go to school 1,000 miles from home, or 10 minutes from home, your time with your family is always decreased during the school year. Everyone is busy with assignments, exams, meetings, and work that it can put a strain on the relationships most close to you. Make sure to spend your summer with your loved ones, whether it be home watching a movie or going out all together, you should devote time to them like they always have for you. (Shoutout to my fam, BTW, because they're the best!)
8. Eating
I honestly almost put this one first because hello, food. But, anyways during the school year everything is about convenience and budgeting, low prep time, and few ingredients. While on break you can save up your money to try new restaurants and coffee spots you've never been to before, you can look up some recipes and try out new foods, actually putting in the time and effort to plan, buy ingredients, and cook a whole meal. You can make more for a few days or even surprise your family. Not only is home cooked food delicious, but it is also healthier for you because you are in complete control of what goes into your dish and you clambake changes according to your taste.
