Beyond enjoying backyard barbecues and waves at the beach, the summer season is also the perfect time to take your skills to the next level. Here are six ways to develop yourself this summer:
Get uncomfortable and fit
Whether it’s preparing for a bodybuilding contest or taking a fitness and adventure travel vacation, professional development and self-care go hand in hand.
Switch up your daily routine
Can you walk or bike to work? Wake up earlier to meditate or read? Take on a new daily activity or initiative at work? Changing your routine can stimulate your creative thinking.
Unplug at least once a day
Does your brain have too many tabs open? Feel like you’re addicted to your cell phone? If you’ve answered yes, it may be time for a digital detox to give your brain a break. Nowadays, hotels and vacation resorts offer a variety of fun and tech-free options for guest to unwind and enjoy …. Alternatively, you can opt for giving up your favorite social media app and digital devices for at least one day.
Join a challenge
Experts say it takes a minimum of 21-days to form a habit, so if you’ve wanted to reduce your spending, lose weight, or unclutter your mind with meditation, starting a 21- or even a 30-day challenge with friends is a great way to get a jump-start on achieving your goals.
Do one thing that scares you
You know that one thing you keep putting off because you’re concerned about what people might think? Or the one activity you dream about doing but you haven’t mustered the courage to take action yet?
Volunteer or get involved with a charity
From lending your expertise to a function of the organization like social media management to providing hands-on support to daily operations such as feeding the homeless.
Editor’s Note: This piece was originally published on August 4, 2017.