Summer Break. It can become very easy to lounge around and binge watch "Friends" over and over again on Netflix. Or sleep your way through it. Although summer is meant to be a time of relaxation, getting too much out of the productive zone can make it hard getting back into the swing of things when school starts up again. So it is important to still stay somewhat productive throughout, even if that means doing just one productive thing a day. So here is a list of things you can do during summer break to feel productive, while still feeling relaxed.
1. Read all those books you have been meaning to!
Many students do not have time to read any books just for fun. Between textbooks and reading assignments, other books just get swept under the rug. Take this time to get to reading all of those books that you have wanted to but felt that you never had time for. Reading, in general, helps you learn new things and expand your vocabulary.
2. Learn a new hobby.
Another one of the things on your "to-do someday list". Maybe there is an art project you have wanted to try or a new recipe to try your hand at. Whatever it may be, learning something new can be exciting and refreshing while you have the time for it.
3. Do some SAT/ACT prep.
Whether you are a rising senior taking the SAT or ACT for one last try or a rising junior wanting to get ahead, summer is a great time to study. Although this isn't the most fun way to spend your break, you will thank yourself later. Balancing test prep during the school year can become difficult, so spending this time to get ahead can help you have more of an ease of mind.
4. Get up at the same time every day.
It can be very easy to sleep in until noon, one, or sometimes even two o'clock (trust me, you're not alone). Having a set time to wake up every day can help establish some sort of routine for your summer. Still sleep in, but just sleep until the same time each day, maybe even before 12 o'clock.
5. Take free online classes.
There are many different institutions and universities that offer free online courses. Take a course in something that may interest you. Get a feel for taking courses that you may want to pursue a career in.
6. Get creative
Painting, drawing or creating anything can be relaxing and a great memory. Get some friends together and have a paint party or go to the local craft store for a DIY project. You don't have to be an artist to create something amazing.
7. Work on that healthy lifestyle
Maybe your New Year's resolutions are not going quite as well as you had wished. Take this time to reevaluate the goals you set to lead a healthier life. Take it step by step and focus in on an aspect that you would like to achieve during the summer. It may be you want to work out more or eat healthier, whatever it may be summer is a great time to set the tone for the rest of the year.
8. Organize/ redecorate your room
Take out all the trash that may be piling up from the school year, throw out old papers you don't need and sell old textbooks. Deep clean your room by going through every single drawer and shelf. Redecorating your room can give it a refreshed feel and a change can be very nice.
9. Clean out your closet
While you switch out your winter sweaters for your summer tanks, take some time to donate some old clothes. Cleaning out your closet is a great way to make some space and unclutter. Now you can go buy some new pieces for your wardrobe!
10. Plan for the upcoming school year
Plan ahead by setting goals and taking note of big events. It may be making a list of potential colleges you are going to apply to as a senior or planning when to take standardized tests your junior year. Make a big list of things you want to accomplish in the next school year.
11. Take up a summer job/internship .
And the classic. This is a great way to stay productive. It helps you keep a routine while also making some extra money. It can also help you add some experience to your resume or college applications.
12. Make the ULTIMATE Bucket List.
And finally, make a list of all the fun things you want to do this summer and keep track of what you do. Looking back at the end of summer and seeing all the amazing memories you were able to make is one of the greatest feelings. Being productive doesn't always have to be work related, it can also be accomplishing all those things on your dream to-do list.