Every year, when summer approaches, social media explodes with pictures and articles about people’s summer goals. Most of them are about getting a “summer body,” being ready to lay out by the beach every day, and wanting to go on these grand adventures. Those are all great goals, but for the most of us college kids that’s just not reality. College kids have to work, take summer classes, and are usually too broke to go on any kind of vacation. So here are my tips on how you can still achieve a fun-filled summer while not being able to do everything you want to.

• The first goal people usually try to hit with summer coming fast is the good ole “summer body.” Society today tells people that you have to be tan, fit, and have the cutest swim suit to have fun. My advice is to ignore what they say, and be who you want to be. Wear the swim suit you like and rock it. You are beautiful as you are, and don’t forget that.
• With that being said, if you are uncomfortable with the way you are and do want to get fit for yourself and no one else, then here are some things I’ve been doing this summer. I told myself that I wanted to start eating healthier and to start working out more, so I did. I made myself a plan, and I’ve been sticking to it. Drink lots of water, and don’t give up!
• If you do slip up, don’t worry. I mess up all the time! Sometimes I’ll have soda on my day that is most definitely not my cheat day, or I’ll skip a workout. I beat myself up over it, but I try to remember that one or two slip ups is not the end of the world. You know your body better than any fitness guru on the internet, so allow yourself to figure out a plan that works for you, and then adjust to it. It will take time, so don’t freak out if you mess up every once in a while.
• This tip ties in with the above. If you’re trying to lose weight, just be healthier or save money, then this one applies. STOP eating out so much! I’m so guilty of this being a college student who works three jobs. Between going to class and then going to work, or just working a long day in the summer, the first thing you want to do is grab something quick to eat so you can do something else or just relax and watch Netflix. You’ll be surprised how much money you save when you stop eating out so much.
• Only spend money on something that will make you happy in the long run. When you work hard, you make some money and sometimes you just want to go blow it. Think about what you’re getting, and if it’s not a necessity and it won’t make you happy for a long period of time, then don’t do it. Fast food, for instance, is a no go. I know you’re hungry right now, but waiting until you get home to eat something there is going to be worth it when you don’t spend $10 on a meal.
• If you’re taking summer classes, don’t be blindsided by FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). You’re back in town with all your high school friends, and they all want to hang out, but sometimes you have to decline an invitation and study. And that’s okay! They will not forget about you, and you will see them eventually. Don’t waste the money on the class if you aren’t going to take it seriously and actually work hard.
• If you do have a free day, going outside is always beneficial! Whether you’re by a pool, going on a hike or just sitting outside in your backyard, some fresh air always helps boost your happiness.
• On the flip-side of number 7, don’t freak out if you just want a lazy day. Staying inside and watching Netflix all day is not a bad thing! You aren’t wasting your summer by sitting inside. It’s healthy to take a few personal days to just relax and be by yourself. (Note that I am not an actual doctor, so when I say “healthy” I mean I do it all the time and am still functioning correctly so it can’t be that bad).
• If you have a job, or two, or three-take them seriously! I know how much it sucks to wake up at 6:30 on weekends and go to work when your friends are hanging out, but remember the money you’re making and saving and remember that it’ll all be worth it when the shift is over. No matter how tired you are or what job you work, always put a smile on your face and make the most of it! If you keep a positive attitude, not only does the day go by quicker, but it also becomes more enjoyable.
• Lastly, if you take anything away from this article let it be this one-become a better you! Be healthier, be happy and be kind. Healthier as in physically, emotionally or mentally, whichever it is you want to improve. When your soul and body are healthy, when you are happy and when you are kind, others become so as well. It will spread, and soon you will find that you not only have had an amazing summer, but you now have an amazing lifestyle.