We have all heard the phrase you do you used sarcastically when a friend is doing something a little out of the ordinary. This summer, it is time to find the power behind the commonly used expression, and “do you" whenever possible.
It is important to make this summer about you – about improving yourself, doing the things that you want to do, and taking the time to cross things off your bucket list. The only thing standing in the way of achieving personal growth this summer is your own motivation, and being too lazy to get out of the house or dorm room should not be an excuse!
It is so easy to get wrapped up in summer internship and job stress, consequentially not taking advantage of the warm weather and stress-free environment after finals.
No matter if you are working, taking classes, traveling, or simply lounging on the couch watching Netflix for three months, summer is also an opportunity to explore what makes you happy in a way that you cannot do during the school year. Instead of spending all-nighters in the library wishing you were at the beach or lying on a hammock, you now have the chance to actually do these things-– as well as other activities you do not have time for when you are studying.
Simple activities during your free time will help keep you going and will lessen the stress of the long hours at your job or internship. Enjoying the summer in your downtime will also help you discover new things about yourself, as well as possibly learning new skills.
Leisurely Activities
Although parents and employers may be pushing you to work hard during the day, it is never a crime to enjoy leisurely activities whenever possible. Taking the time to do things that make you happy during the summer can allow you to learn more about yourself. Depending on the amount of time you have, there are many relaxing and fun activities that you can do alone or with others: taking walks around new areas, trying new foods and restaurants, binge-watching popular TV shows such as House of Cards or Gossip Girl, reading for pleasure rather than textbooks, hiking and exploring nature, and hanging out with friends and family in a stress-free environment are just a few of the many things you probably do not have time to do during the school year. Do you-– do not be afraid to try something your friends may not be into.
Working Out
During the school year, exercising can seem like a hassle while balancing good grades, a social life, and getting enough sleep. Summer is the perfect time to try out different types of workouts. Whether you go to classes at places like Soul Cycle, Barre3, and Core Power, or work out by yourself at the gym and go on runs outside, it is easy to get into a routine that will keep you motivated and happy with your body for the summer season. Working out with friends can also encourage you to maintain a good schedule.
Learning A New Skill
Personal growth is a key aspect of college. However, there is not always time to do everything we want to do in the midst of exams. If you are ambitious, new skills can be remembered far past the summer. Learning to cook, bake, play a new sport, paint and sculpt, kayak, or even speak a new language are all possible if you take a few moments of your spare time to devote to expanding your knowledge. Learning new skills can also help you find happiness in something you never knew you were capable of doing. This can follow through into the next semester and allow you to continue these activities for the rest of your life.
