Who doesn’t look forward to summer? It’s a long-awaited break for many students. It’s time to relax, explore, travel or enjoy the next few months. Who doesn’t want that?
We all need some downtime and your summer vacation is the ultimate way to enjoy it. After all, you deserve it! However, the long summer holidays can also make you forget most of what you learned during the last school year. This can cause a lack of motivation if you are taking a summer course or heading into the new fall semester eventually.
1. Create a routine
Make a list of goals and stick to them. stay organized the best way you know. You want to have fun, but the work still needs to be done. If there is flexibility in your schedule due to online work or classes, it is important to create a list of daily and/or weekly goals to plan your time. This way you organize what you want to accomplish.
The key to any good routine is taking time for yourself and breaking tasks down into manageable, realistic goals. Trial-and-error practices are common when determining the time and style for your peak productivity, but establishing a set schedule will help you stay organized and motivated. It will also teach you how to manage your time.
2. Read for fun during summer vacation
It’s hard to check the books on your list while you’re in school. Most of your reading is devoted to textbooks during your studies. Do yourself a favor and create a summer reading list of all the books you’ve been wanting to read. Head to your favorite outdoor spot and bring a good book with you. Not only does reading keep your brain sharp, but there are additional benefits to read a good book too.
3. Create a summer study group
If you can, join classmates or friends who can also take summer programs and classes. This will help when it’s critical time and work needs to be done. You can motivate each other, control each other, and celebrate together when the hard work is done.
4. Make time for summer fun
Summer is here, so enjoy it! Even if you have lessons, take the time to enjoy the sun and the good weather. Manage your time and take advantage of things like outdoor study breaks or exercise. All of this will ultimately help you stay focused and relieve stress.
Completed an assignment or finished an exam? Reward yourself by taking the time to do one of your favorite summer activities. By allowing yourself to wind down in spurts and enjoy your summer, you’ll experience an increase in productivity as you head back to school in the fall.
For more summer encouragement, check out 5 things to do before the end of summer.
Marcy McMillan
Marcy McMillan is a strategic communications professional with over 5 years of experience managing communications projects in a variety of industries. She is currently responsible for social media as the Communications Coordinator for the Toronto District School Board and has also established herself as an independent PR professional working with numerous clients/companies on a variety of communications projects. You can find Marcy on Twitter or Instagram at @marcy113.