If you work full-time, it can be hard to find time to enjoy the warm, bright summer weather. This is especially true for young professionals, many of whom are used to summer vacations (or at least flexible summer schedules). But you don’t have to feel trapped behind the walls of your cubicle. Get outside and enjoy the summer!
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your summer while working full time.
1. Get a folding chair
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Keep a few folding camping chairs in your office so you and your coworkers can enjoy some sunshine over lunch in the park or parking lot.
2. Keep a beach bag in your car
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Pack a bag full of summer gear for your favorite summer activities. With your bag (or in my case, the back seat) full of towels, sunscreen, and swimsuits, you’re prepared for anything. Your friends might want to go to the pool after work, and when 5 o’clock rolls around, you’re ready to hit the road.
3. Plan an office outing
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Plan an office outing to the beach, park, pool, etc. Do something fun and refresh your brain.
4. Organize a group walk
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Gather your coworkers and take regular walks around town during your lunch break (or suggest a quick stop at an ice cream shop). This is a great way to get some fresh air, sunshine, and exercise.
5. Eat lunch in the park
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When you go out to eat, choose a place that has a deck, porch, or patio. Obviously, eating out every day isn’t realistic for most people, so consider alternative ideas: Pack a lunch, go to the park, and have a little picnic.
6. Organize office sports
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Whether you start an official office sports team or just hang out with coworkers a few times a week, playing sports is a great way to get outside and enjoy the weather. Is there a field nearby? Try organizing a slow-pitch softball game. Or, set up a basketball hoop in the office and invite a few coworkers over for a round of basketball during lunch.
7. Join an expert group
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During the summer, professional networking groups often host fun events like harbor cruises, pub crawls, and outdoor meet-ups. Find a professional group in your area and get networking this summer!
8. Have an office barbecue
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Get the grill ready! Ask your boss to plan an office BBQ. Get everyone to bring their favorite food, side dishes, and drinks. Fire up the grill and relax! It’s summer after all.
9. Get up early
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Yes, yes, I know… waking up early can be an incredibly painful and excruciating experience for some, but waking up even an hour earlier can have its benefits, especially in summer. Go for a morning run, hang out in the garden, or watch the sunrise with your loved ones. Get your day started on the right foot!
10. Use your vacation time strategically
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Use your vacation days strategically to coincide with your days off. This will help you extend your often long weekends without using up too much of your precious vacation time. A half-day off is a great idea too – you’ll be amazed at how much you can get done with an extra four hours! If you want to make the weekend go quicker but don’t want to use up your vacation days too quickly, try taking a half-day off on Friday instead of a full day off.
11. Commuting by bicycle
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If you’re one of the lucky few who live within walking or biking distance of your workplace, then take advantage of it. Not only will you get plenty of fresh air, but you’ll also save money on gas, which is always a plus.
There are plenty of easy ways to enjoy summer, even if you work full time. Try out some of these ideas this summer and make the most of the sunshine and warm weather.
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