The Summer of Self-Care

by: Olivia Kerper

Last summer, I spent every day either working or sleeping. This time around, I plan on doing things a little differently.

Making Time for Myself (and Adventures)

This past week, I went to the beach four days in a row. Yes, it helps that I live in Florida, but before college, I went to the beach maybe once a year. It wasn’t until I started pushing myself out of my comfort zone and throwing my insecurities in the back seat that I truly allowed myself to enjoy my life for what it genuinely is.

I make time for myself a little each day–whether that be grabbing a coffee, swimming in the ocean, or organizing my room to clear my mind, I know that it calms me down and enriches my soul.

Prioritizing My Studies

I’m taking four classes this summer. Yeah, I know.

This past semester was one of my best yet, and I am confident that is because I stuck to a routine that involved me waking up at the same time every day and studying a little bit each morning and night. To encourage furthering my academic growth even in the off-season, I plan on visiting a coffee shop at least three times a week to imitate my study environment at school and increase my productivity.

Making Goals

Since I am in the summer before my senior year (!!!) of college, it is important to me to have a rough plan–or at least a few ambitious goals–regarding my post-graduate life. I am a dreamer, one of my biggest assets and greatest downfalls, so every plan I make must be far in advance to make sure I have time to let it sit. For example, my latest goal is to go to Canada for Graduate School. Is it too far out of my reach? Stay tuned to find out!

Sticking to My Routine

During the school year, I developed and stuck to a morning routine that helped me be productive and focus on my grades. Since I am taking four summer classes, it is extremely important that I maintain my productivity. It has been an easy transition from college to summer because I am prioritizing my schedule, and waking up early allows me to fully embrace the beauty that is summertime.

Balancing School, Work, and Friends

Last summer, I worked a different job that had more demanding hours and was very emotional for me. Not to say I don’t love that line of work, because it has given me so much, but this summer I needed a change of pace. Especially regarding my academic schedule this semester, working every day wasn’t an option.

Now, I am working as an office assistant with flexible hours, which allows me to focus on my studies, make money, but also not feel guilty about putting myself first!

Allowing Time for Creativity

My biggest passions come from a place of extreme creativity: photography, writing, painting, and lettering. I don’t remember a time in my life where I wasn’t creating stories and doodling on my school work. Being creative is a portion of my “me-time”. I look forward every day to either taking pictures, writing on my blog, or painting, and that’s how I plan to spend my summer–being so excited to wake up and be creative that I can barely fall asleep.

Not Putting Too Much Pressure on Myself

With all of that said, this summer is jam-packed with school, work, and creativity. I am taking my time to be with myself each day in solitude to truly evaluate my needs. If I am tired, I won’t hesitate to take a nap regardless of the hour of productivity I may lose. If I’m thirsty, soda is not the move this summer–it’s water or nothing. Let this serve as a reminder that your health and wellness is an integral part of your life and impact on others.

Lighten up on yourself. No one is perfect. Gently accept your humanness.

Deborah day

Have a great summer, stick to a schedule, and make time for yourself! You’ve got this!