So…it's summer again. And between watching Netflix, hanging out with friends, and occasionally working (whenever you're forced to act like an adult), you're bored. Or at least, you're out of new episodes, and you don't want to put on pants! So now you need to find something else to do. No matter who you are or what you do, these skills will be a fun and easy way to pass the time this summer!
Domestic Skills
First off, some genuinely useful skills. Whether you’re going off to college soon, or you’ve already been living on your own, knowing your way around some domestic skills will come up sometime. Domestic Skills are, well, useful. Most of us have tried to conquer these skills in the past, but maybe you've never been successful. If you aren’t confident in your domestic ability, check out these handy skills:
1. Cooking
This is probably one of the easiest skills to pick up, because who doesn't like to eat? As Jennifer Lawrence says, food is the best part of the day! And yes, there are plenty of mug-recipes and instant-bake online, but why not try one that involves an actual oven? Pick something off your pinterest food board, or in your Facebook timeline. The nice thing about cooking is that step-by-step instructions are provided. All you need to do is get the right ingredients (and sometimes you can even substitute if you don’t have the correct ones). Most websites require you to know what you want to make, but some websites will even provide you a recipe, given the ingredients you already have. The possibilities are endless! Maybe you'll even surprise yourself
2. Sewing
I believe sewing is one of the lost arts. Not just stitching up a hole in the armpit of your shirt, but actually sewing - creating something new. This isn’t just something your grandma can do! There are easy patterns that can be found both online and in your local sewing store. While you may need to invest in a sewing machine for larger projects, there are plenty of hand-stitched ones you can start with! From bookmarks to headbands, a needle and thread can take you anywhere - maybe you'll make your own dress eventually! Pinterest is a great place to start your sewing search!
3. First Aid
Ouch! Now that you’ve taken up sewing and cooking, there have probably been some mishaps. You never know what could happen, and it's always better to be over-prepared than underprepared. There's basic first aid, and then there's more advanced care. You probably know your way around the basic bandage, but can you use a butterfly one? They have wings just like a real butterfly, I promise! Do you know CPR? If not, there are plenty of resources around to learn from. You might even be able to find a First Aid class at your local community college.
Personal Development Skills
Maybe you're home this summer, and parents are breathing down your neck. When will you grow up? What do you have planned for your future? Never fear! There are plenty of easy skills that you can learn this summer to increase your chance of major success
4. Resume Building
Do you have a resume? If not, now’s the time to start. If so, is it looking a little sparse? Maybe you've filled it with everything you can think of (except increase the font), and that still doesn't seem like enough. If you don’t currently have access to a career advisor, you can find help online! They have online and over-the-phone support for people like you
And even if your resume is full to the brim, maybe it could use some updating! It's always good to make sure your resume is as current as possible, so it's ready for the next career fair or interview you want to take on. Add any new positions that you've taken on, and think about what will help you land the positions you want in the future!
5. Time Management
If you've struggled in the past with time management, maybe now is the time to learn better habits! Over the summer you will be less busy and less stressed, making it the perfect time to start keeping a schedule in your planner. Even if you’re only scheduling minor appointments, getting into the habit of tracking them will make it easier to adjust when you . So go pick out a fancy new planner, one that has different areas for everything you want to be able to do. I personally love the Vera Bradley student agenda for its roominess and style. Find one that fits your needs and make sure it can last you a whole year!
6. Budget Planning
Nobody seems to really enjoy making a budget. Not only are they tedious, but it doesn't make sense why you should limit your spending on new clothes, shoes, or food! However, making a budget (and sticking to it) is a very key part of living a successful life. While it’s very easy to constantly buy whatever you want, it’s much harder to save up for something. Making a budget and sticking to it is a lesson in restraint, which will help you even more in the future! There are even apps and worksheets you can use to help get started!
Fun Skills
Maybe none of the above skills sound fun or entertaining to you, and you've given up hope for your summer. Just wait - there are three more skills for you, and while they may not prove as useful in your everyday life, you’ll have fun learning them!
7. Juggling
Sure, everyone says they know how to juggle -- you know, when they pass one (maybe two) items from their hands and toss them in the air. But that's not really juggling. Real juggling is a skill that takes some coordination to learn, but after you've got it, everyone will be amazed! They say that starting with scarves or feathers is nice, because then they'll float in the air. I'm not sure how many ways you can learn, but you'll never know without trying!
8. Rubik's Cube
I've always been amazed at those who know how to quickly solve a Rubik's cube. That is, until I learned the secrets of the cube. There are some simple tricks and patterns that you'll need to memorize, but with enough practice, you can solve it like a pro! Maybe you can move on to other tricks once you master the basics!
9. Lock Picking
This is a task that requires some patience and practice… and an understanding that this is not to be used for illegal activities! In learning how to pick a lock, you have to learn the mechanisms of a lock, and how to better protect your stuff! Not only will you be more aware of the locks that keep you safe, but it's also a good skill to have if you're locked out of your house!
So now that you know that you have something to do with the rest of the summer, maybe it's time to start! Or maybe it would be better to start with a nap... That's OK too!
