Summer means the sun is out, farmers markets are brimming with fresh fruits and vegetables, and people are generally more relaxed and happier, excited for barbeques, pool parties, and weekends at the lake. Many of you are celebrating a break from online classes. 

This summer break may look different from one’s past, but it can still be a productive and enjoyable one. Here are a few ideas to make your summer count:

Start a self-care practice This will look different for everyone, but summer is a good opportunity to develop healthy habits and potentially do away with things that are no longer serving you. Some ideas: take long naps, develop a workout routine, go for a walk, learn how to cook, start a budget, and take time to reflect on your goals, relationships, and current state of mind. Getting into meditation is another activity worth looking into. 

Borrow books online 

I am that person that will spend hours at the library, even during summer (no shame). Hoopla and Kanopy are two popular online platforms that partner with public libraries and universities and allow those with participating library cards to borrow books, movies, television shows, and more for free – check out if your library has access to these platforms or if something similar is available. 

Do not have a personal reading list yet? Check out our favorite leadership books. Also, tackling an anti-racist reading list suggested by anti-racist organizations and educators is a good opportunity to continue to educate yourself and be part of the Black Lives Matter movement.  

Spend time with friends and family

It is easy to be distracted and busy during the school year, so carve out time in the summer to invest in important relationships: call your grandparents, have a picnic with your family, and catch up with friends you haven’t seen in a while. When you start to miss your college or university pals, host an online trivia night or “PowerPoint Party,” where one person gets to educate everyone else on something they love.

Attend virtual events

Virtual events are a great way to socialize and learn something new. Platforms like Eventbrite host certification courses, virtual fitness classes, and live stream music, sports, or news. You could even pop “virtual events free” into a Google Events search and see what turns up – you might be surprised!

Prepare for the new job market

If you’re close to graduating college or university, prepare for the new job market by learning new skills and digital platforms, upgrading your résumé and LinkedIn profile, networking, volunteering, and/or taking on an “essential job” or side hustle.

Happy summer, from the EmpowHERto team! Even though summer is a great time to be productive, it should also be a season of fun and rejuvenation, whatever that looks like for you. Connect with us on IG @empowherto and let us know what you have been up to this summer.