Summer is a season that many of us eagerly anticipate. The days are longer, the weather is warmer, and there’s a palpable sense of excitement in the air. But balancing being productive and efficient with the desire to relax and enjoy, can be challenging. I’m always more intentional about my time in the summer, so I can “get in and get out,” to make more time for self-care and hobbies.
Here’s how you can stay productive during the summertime to free up more time for fun and self-care:
Embrace the Power of Early Mornings
Sarah my graphic designer client used to struggle with balancing her work and personal life during the summer. She found herself working late into the night, missing out on evenings out with her friends. During our work together, she decided to start waking up earlier. By 7:30 a.m., she had already completed her workout, responded to emails, and planned her day. This left her evenings free for social activities and relaxation.
Studies show that our cognitive functions peak in the late morning, making it an ideal time to tackle our most difficult tasks. By starting your day earlier, you align your work hours with your brain’s natural productivity peak. This approach not only boosts efficiency but also frees up your evenings for relaxation and fun.
Break Tasks into Smaller Chunks
Felicia, an accountant in our Busy To Bliss Membership felt overwhelmed by her workload, especially in the summer when her kids were home from school. We had her using the Pomodoro Technique, breaking her work into 25-minute focused intervals with 5-minute breaks. This method helped her stay focused and productive, closing her phone, closing all her tabs while she was in a 25 minute work block, which played to her brains most productive way to work. This new efficiency allowing her to enjoy more quality time with her family during the summer. She got international with her time.
The Pomodoro Technique leverages the science of attention and productivity. Research shows that breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks can enhance our focus and even prevent burnout. Regular breaks help you maintain high levels of productivity throughout the day.
Utilize Technology Wisely
Emily, a marketing manager in our Membership discovered that she was spending too much time on admin tasks, leaving little room for strategic thinking and creativity. She started using productivity apps like Trello and automation tools to streamline her entire workflow. This change significantly reduced her workload, because she started working smarter, not harder, and making technology work FOR HER, NOT AGAINST HER, giving her more time to engage in hobbies and enjoy the summer!
Technology can be a double-edged sword. I know that. While it can of course distract us, it can also be used to boost productivity. I’ve seen it countless times both in my private practice and my membership. Tools that automate routine tasks or help with project management can save valuable time. Productivity apps can lead to improved time management and reduced stress.
Plan and Set Boundaries
Planning and setting boundaries are crucial for maintaining productivity and personal well-being. Research suggests that having a structured schedule and clear boundaries can prevent burnout and promote a healthier work-life balance.
I teach all my BusyTo Bliss Self-Care Members how to create clear and defined boundaries. It’s all part of our self-care foundations course. Once you can set clear boundaries by designating specific work hours and sticking to them, the summer gets better. In addition, planning your week in advance, and using a little more structured approach in the summer, scheduling both work tasks and leisure activities, helps him maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Balancing productivity with the joys of summer doesn’t have to be difficult, truly. Remember, being productive isn’t about working harder; it’s about working smarter. Go ahead, get your work done efficiently, so you can make time to soak up the sun and create beautiful memories this summer.
How are YOU making the most of your summer? I’d love to know.
