Official Health & Wellness Partner
The time has finally come: school is out for the summer! But now it’s time for the next challenge, figuring out what to do for the next couple of months. You may feel overwhelmed by how many options you have and worrying about how you’re going to squeeze it all in. Or you may be thinking it’s finally time to get some rest after a challenging school year. Read on for some tips on making the most out of summer break.
Start with Reflection Before Making Plans
With multiple months ahead to do whatever you want to do, you may find yourself defaulting to the easiest choices. Stop, and take a moment to reflect before making your summer plans. What have you learned during the school year that you can incorporate into your summer break? What are you truly passionate about, and how can you help that cause? What’s something you’ve been wanting to try but never had the time? Let your answers inform your plans for the summer break.
Set a Few Meaningful Goals
Sometimes, students can get caught up in wanting to accomplish as much as possible or, on the flip side, rest as much as possible. Rather than looking into ways to fill up your schedule, try setting a few meaningful goals to accomplish by the end of summer break. Maybe by the end of the summer you want to get through a reading list or learn a few new chords on the guitar. This could be the summer you run a full mile for the first time. Whatever your goals, write them down early on, and place them somewhere visible to help you stay on track.
Make Time for Rest and Renewal
Don’t forget to actually take a break. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of having the freedom to do whatever you want during the break from school. However, you need to take time to relax and recuperate. If you need to, plan out time specifically for doing nothing. Make sure to keep that time for yourself, especially if your schedule is otherwise packed with other activities. If you don’t choose time for rest, your body will choose for you.
Leave Room for Service
One way to spend the summer more intentionally is to make time for serving others. Consider volunteering with a local ministry or tutoring younger students who need to catch up before the upcoming school year. If you want to serve your community while also preparing for your future, look into summer jobs or internship opportunities. You should have plenty of free time to work toward your goals or to help others reach theirs.
Be Wise About Screens and Entertainment
When you have free time, it’s easy to get lost in the infinite scroll and the streaming autoplays. Set screen-free times when you’re committed to spending time away from your devices. In the morning when you wake up, during meals, and before bed are great times to limit your screen use. During your screen-free times, take time to get chores done, do some reading, or get creative. There’s so much you can do this summer. Don’t let screens hold you back.
At North Tampa Christian Academy, we encourage students to spend their time mindfully throughout the year. Students at our Tampa private school thrive creatively, academically and spiritually in a real-world learning environment. Faculty and families work together to inspire leadership through Christian innovation. Contact us today to learn more.