As we all get older, summer becomes less and less about kicking back and more about preparing ourselves for the future. As important as gaining work experience that probably won't matter is, I still believe in the magic of summer. That wonderful feeling of waking up late. The hot sun beaming down on your face as you lay out on the beach. The beauty of summer is you never know what could happen if you let go and just enjoy life. To ensure that I do that, I’m making a special little list. A list of promises that I make to myself that will make this summer the best one yet.

1. I promise to not let worries of the future get in my way.

Of course, working and gaining work experience is important. During the school year doing that is just about impossible. Take this summer to do that but don’t let it take over your life. Right now is a time to unwind and enjoy yourself too.

2. I promise to try new things.

I won’t stay in my comfort zone this summer in any aspect. I will hang out with new people and go to different places and try new things. New is fun and exciting and full of the unknown and that is what summer is all about.

3. I promise to live in the moment.

I will not keep my nose buried in a book or stuck on Instagram. As cool as that panorama shot overlooking the beach may be, look at it with your eyes first. Be present and apart of the moment. A picture isn’t a memory if you weren’t in the moment.

4. I promise to take chances.

To push myself out of comfort zone. Staying in an easy comfortable place creates laziness and a lack of creativity. Allowing myself to be in uncomfortable situations may introduce me to something new that I may love. At the very least, I’ll get a fun story out of it.

5. I promise to take care of myself.

To eat better and exercise more. The body will appreciate it when you’re burning energy all day out in the hot sun.

6. I promise to read.

Magazines. Books. Newspapers. Anything. Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean the brain gets to take a four-month vacation. I will actively read to keep myself focused and mentally agile. Oh, and maybe learn a thing or two.

7. I promise to take pictures.

As I said before, living in the moment is the most important thing. But, the world is a beautiful place and it doesn’t hurt to appreciate that. There are so many fun nights with friends and wild adventures I’ve had that I forgot to take pictures of and I regret so much. Take a second to record what’s happening, but go back to living in the moment.

8. I promise to be careful.

Summer is known for wild parties and adventures with your friends. The most important thing is to be safe. Recklessness may seem fun in the moment but can turn into something that you regret for the rest of your life. No matter what is happening, I promise to prioritize the safety of myself and others over having a good time.