Last Friday we had a beautiful day here in the northeast -- eighty degrees and sunny. During the afternoon I decided to hop on my bike and take a ride to the beach. While riding, I thought about all the fun things I'd like to do this summer. Then, instead of just thinking about them, I decided to make plans once I got home. In the past, I've often left the scheduling of fun activities to chance. But, I've learned from experience that the best memories are inspired by forethought and good planning.
So this week I'd like to invite you to preplan some of your best summer fun. Here's what you could do:
1. Make a list of the people you'd most like to spend time with. Whose company do you miss most? Who have you been meaning to get together with for ages? Who makes you laugh? Who stimulates your thinking or forces you to step outside of your comfort zone? Who allows you to just relax?
2. Make a list of fun activities. What have you been wanting to do that you never seem to find time for? What types of activities make you feel excited and a little nervous at the same time? If you could do anything, what would it be? Maybe you'd like to:
Visit a water slide park
Schedule a family cookout (make it pot luck so you can enjoy time with everyone)
Plan a beach day or outdoor picnic with friends
Learn to sail, roller blade, or mountain bike
Spend a day searching for antiques
Visit a favorite summer spot from your childhood
Set up a family and/or friends softball game
Hang out and do absolutely nothing for one whole weekend
If you're not sure what to do (after all, you may have forgotten how to have fun), ask family members or friends for suggestions.
3. Schedule fun now.
Once you know who you'd like to see and what you'd like to do, don't wait. Schedule these activities in your calendar right away.
Planning a great summer doesn't need to be complicated or expensive. Some of my most treasured summer memories occurred as a result of simply hanging out with family and friends at the beach. When you schedule enough time with loved ones to move below the superficial catch-up conversations, you make room for deeper, more nourishing ones. Remember, the most cherished memories always involve the special people in our lives. Create a few great ones this summer!
Take Action Challenge
Don't just think about the kind of summer you'd most like to have, do something about it this week. Complete the assignment above, make a few phone calls, and start
scheduling your best summer yet!
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