Make This Summer One For The Books

Summer is finally here! After weeks of blood, sweat, and tears, we have finally come out the other end of finals week. Some of us may be taking the summer to get settled into our new careers, while others are set to soak up the summer rays and get some R&R before fall semester. Safe to say that either way, life is pretty good.

However, there's this little problem. I like to call it the "summer slump." The first couple weeks into summer, we are all bursting with energy and positive vibes. School is officially over and we have all the free time in the world to paint our nails, workout, catch up on our shows, go to the beach or on a hike, read that book collecting dust on the bookshelf, etc.

But this upbeat mentality fades quickly, and suddenly we are left with choices like deciding whether or not today is the day we'll finally shower, or if we'll get out of bed before noon. All motivation to have a productive summer goes right out the window, along with it some of our dignity.

I'm fairly certain we are all guilty of the "summer slump." I certainly am. If you find yourself getting caught in this lazy lull, use some of the following tips to dig yourself back out. As the title says, make this summer one for the books!

Pick up a book you're dying to read. It can be something thought provoking or something simple. Head to your local bookstore and browse the aisles until you find something that catches your eye. Most of us enjoy reading when it's not a required textbook, and it's incredibly good for mental health. The first few weeks of summer break you might still be decompressing, but once you feel a little more relaxed pick up a good read! At the very least, it beats sitting on your computer cyber-stalking everyone else's summer vacations.

Play tourist for a day. Being from Las Vegas, one of my favorite things to do is grab a friend and head down to the Strip. Explore the hidden gems of your own town; grab some food at the famous local diner, go for a run on the popular hiking trail, attend a local concert, or visit some historical sites. If you happen to live in a small town, try going a city or two over. You never know what you might find and what memories you might make. Plus, you will likely get local deals on tourist's attractions so it won't break the bank!

Take a drive. Sometimes the best thing for us is to get in the car, roll down the windows, crank up the music, and just go. I recommend doing this particular activity alone, but bringing a friend or two can definitely make for good company! There's honestly nothing like a good drive to reset your mind and soul. Personally, I enjoy driving to the lake and just kicking my feet up once I get there.

Do something you had no time for during the school year. We all have these kinds of projects. The ones we said we wanted to do if we had the time. For me, it's an inspiration board (a tangible one, not Pinterest). I have wanted to make one for a very long time, but I never seem to find time for it. If you're really ambitious, do something that you've been afraid to do. Breaking a fear is easily one of the most liberating experiences a person can have. It's sure to put a little pep back in your summer step.