Summertime—a time for much-needed R&R; quality time with loved ones; and, of course, fun in the sun.

Between the good times and tan lines, it can be hard to stay on top of it. We’ve got some ideas for making the most of your summer.

Here are 8 tips on how to stay productive and healthy during the season of the sun:

Say hello to H20

Drinking water is always important—but during the intense heat, dare we say it’s even more important?

Side note: We understand that you want to get your groove on this summer. We advise you to go slow on alcoholic drinks. You see, too many drinks in the hot summer weather will leave you dehydrated.

Take a Break

No, like a real break. We promise that all those work emails or house chores will still be there when you get back. Whether it’s a staycation inside your home or a real vacation at the beach, give yourself time to relax and refuel. In fact, people who take their breaks seriously are overall more productive and successful.¹

Adapt to Schedule Changes

Between holidays, vacations, and your kids being out of school, it’s pretty much impossible to stick to a strict schedule all summer long— and that’s okay! Try not to get overwhelmed if not all regular meal times or bed times are met. Work with what you got and do the best you can.

Prioritize, Prioritize, Prioritize

You may not be able to tackle that 47-item-long To-Do list this summer, but you can totally get a few things done here and there. Prioritizing projects and activities will make you more likely to do them AND leave you feeling less stressed.² WIN/WIN.

Breakfast? Check

Enjoy your tasty breakfast this summer ensuring it has the necessary nutrition to stimulate your metabolism. We recommend that you take larger portions during summer to fuel your body and cushion the effects of the sweltering heat.

Work Up a Sweat

We aren’t talking about just stepping outside. We know that you worked out in spring to achieve the perfect summer body; we recommend summer workouts too. The workouts will keep you refreshed and active over the season. Add some hiking, swimming, biking, and tennis while at it.

Get That Hat On

Not to sound like your mother right now, but trust us, you’ll thank us later. While outdoors use some SPF on your face. This will keep your skin safe from UV sun rays. Also, throw in a hat before stepping out.

Organize Something

Your pantry, the playroom, your closet, your desk, the car, your phone...whatever your heart desires! Pick something and clean it out. You’ll feel productive and a little more “in control” of your life despite the summer craziness. We’ve got some great organizing ideas here.

May your summer be productive, sane, fun, and full of lots and lots of watermelon.

 

References

1 http://thriving.berkeley.edu/sites/default/files/Embracing%20Work%20Breaks%20(Eschle­man%20Lecture).pdf

2 http://dl.acm.org/citation.cfm?id=985785