Top 5 Things For A Well-Rounded Summer

Memorial Day has come and gone, the days are getting longer, and while the June solstice is still a few weeks away, I’m here to say ‘hello, beginning of summer’! Think of it like New Year’s Day, but warmer. Not that we need some type of resolution, but maybe to jumpstart these next few months a few things to help guide you:

1. Set one career goal

The sun is shining and the birds are chirping so I know that work is probably the last thing that you’d want to think about. That’s why I said one. Whether it’s acquiring a new skill or organizing your portfolio. Pick a very realistic goal so that once fall hits, you’ll not only have that awesome tan, but you’ll also be ahead of the game.

2. Catch up on the news

There have been some pretty big headlines lately. The BP Gulf Oil spill still dominates the nightly news (as it should) with no end in sight. Relations between North Korea and South Korea have been severely strained with a recent sinking of a South Korean warship. Evidence points to North Korea as the culprit and if things heat up, this will have global effects. If we for one second think things of this nature will not affect us, then I’m not sure why we complain about the rising price of gas, food, and lack of jobs. Catch up on the news, people. It can be as simple as setting Google News as your default homepage or possibly following a Twitter news list.

3. Get a pedicure

Well, maybe not a pedicure. But don’t forget to treat your hard-working self! Or if you have just recently graduated, take a little break! Whether it’s getting a massage, nails done, or perhaps a full blow spa day – everyone needs a little “me-time” as a good reset button. On a budget? Seek out deals that will allow you to be pampered without breaking the wallet. Instead of eating out for one week, put that money towards your reward. Join your local Groupon and ask around for good deals and reviews. You may be surprised how affordable a little luxury is.

4. Volunteer

Got some free time this summer? Why not give back? This is a great time to check out ways you can contribute. Think of what you enjoy doing and seek out volunteer activities that you would look forward do doing. Whether it’s playing with puppies at the local animal shelter, packing lunches for the homeless, or spending a weekend to build a house – there are plenty of ways, both big and small, to get involved. Here are three websites to help you get started:

Volunteer.org

Idealist.org

Serve.gov

5. Plan A Getaway

There is no time like the present for a little getaway. I know that many of us may not have the budget nor the vacation time from work for that 10 day Euro trip, so keep this realistic yet fun. Perhaps a road trip to another city for the weekend to check out a museum, eat at an affordable yelp fave, and enjoy some local festivities? Spend a little time doing research and it will be well worth it once you’re out and about experiencing something new!