Summer is about halfway over for almost everyone, and that leaves most of us regretting sitting at home and watching Netflix all day, everyday. We go onto Instagram and Facebook and envy everyone hanging out on the beach and traveling abroad. We worry that our summer has been useless, but don't worry about it! With these nine life items, your summer can still be the best one yet.
1. Attitude
This may not seem like much, but having a good attitude about yourself, other people, and the experiences that come towards you can affect everything. If you have a bad attitude about not doing anything cool this summer, then you'll be more likely to think that your summer has been awful. However, if you have a good attitude about something as simple as going to Andy's, then your summer will be that much better! (And don't forget to post a pic with your Andys, because after all, if you don't post a picture did you even go?)
2. Goals
I'm not talking about #goals. I'm talking about goals you set for yourself. If you have a goal during the summer (and in life) then you feel more accomplished when you finally reach your goal. It doesn't have to be a huge goal like finish college in two years or something, but it can be a little thing like hanging out with a friend once a week for a month. Achieving these goals can help you feel like your summer hasn't been wasted.
3. Perspective
This is probably another thing where you're like, "what do you even mean?" When you have perspective, it's easier to notice other people and situations around you. Maybe those people you see on social media that are having a great summer are struggling with something you don't know about. So instead of judging them or yourself based on their Instagram and Snapchat pics, maybe try to get some perspective.
4. Friends and Family
This summer hang out with your friends and family, because we all know we don't have a lot of time left with them. (Clarification: I'm talking about college and moving, not dying.) You don't have to do anything big or fancy with them, you can just watch a movie with a group of your friends or family members.
5. The Spirit of Adventure
Many of us are scared to try new things and go new places, but if you're too scared to do new things, life's opportunities are going to pass you by. This summer, try new things and go new places you haven't been. Your summer will be more fun and you won't regret it.
6. Music, Books, TV, Movies, etc.
This might seem a little strange to be on a list for life packing, but things that pass the time can help you escape reality for a while. While you're at home, you could feel like you're James Bond fighting against the wrong doings of the world, or Harry Potter fighting against Voldemort for the wizarding world. Escaping from reality for a long time probably isn't good, but doing it occasionally is a great way to make your summer more enjoyable.
7. Gratitude
Having gratitude for what you have and the opportunities that come your way can help your summer stand out more than the others. Being grateful can help give your life have a little more purpose.
8. Laughter
This summer laugh a little more than you have, and it will instantly brighten your day, summer, and year. Laughter helps make you happier and you will forget about being angry, regretful, or jealous.
9. Whatever Makes You Happy
Last of all, do whatever makes you happy. If you do something that makes you happy, whether that's swimming, making art, petting cats, or eating chocolate, if it's something that makes you happy then you just can't have a bad summer.
So this summer/year, don't forget to take your packing list wherever you go and check them off everyday.
