3 Ways to Enjoy Summer (Work) Days
Growing up there was almost nothing more exciting than the last day of school and the anticipation of endless summer days. Summer meant freedom. I can remember riding bikes with my brother and cousins all over the small town we lived in. On particularly windy days the 2-mile ride back to our house on the outskirts of town was slow and painful, but the freedom to go where we wanted when we wanted was worth it. And it was needed. Summer vacation provided a necessary break from the daily school routine as well as time and space to get motivated for the next school year.
When you are all grown up summer days are a lot more like every other day. But with kids of my own, I still see their excitement and enjoyment at the freedom they have to do what they want when they want, and it rubs off on me. I find myself with more desire to be outdoors, to play, to let loose a little more.
And I think that is a good thing. As a professional creative, I need to stay inspired and motivated, and sitting at a desk all day is not the most conducive environment for that. So here are 3 ways to get more inspiration – and enjoyment – out of your summer (work)days.
- Ride a bike! Live close enough to the office? Try riding to work. If you are not close enough, bring your bike and take a ride at lunch. Or take a day off and hit the trails. It’s good exercise and a great way to see the world from a different perspective.
- Take a walk! Maybe biking is not your cup of tea, but getting outdoors in any fashion is a wonderful way to break up the day. Fast or slow, close or far, just get out and move around. Get away from that computer screen and see what’s around you.
- Look to others! Sometimes you simply cannot get out, and that is not the only way to get inspired. There are countless individuals out there doing amazing things and sharing them online. In the creative world in particular, here are a few of my current favorites:
- Colossal: A site devoted to art, design, photography, video, music, even science gets in there sometimes. If you have never been to this site, then stop reading this and go now.
- DANGERDUST: this anonymous duo takes inspirational quotes and turns them into exquisite designs using chalk and a chalkboard.
- The Art of Non-Conformity: Chris Guillebeau visited every country in the world (literally). Careful – he might inspire you to quit your job.
What are your favorite summer memories, and where do you get inspiration?
BONUS: Music! Music is a huge inspiration when I am working, so here is a summer-themed playlist for your listening pleasure.
