Surfboard and palm tree on beach with beach sign for surfing area. Travel adventure and water sport. ... [+]
I’ve always thought all jobs should stick to a school calendar: done by 3, and off for the summers. Unfortunately, a lot of employers don’t agree with me. If you’re finding the days crawling by over the summer, as you fantasize about the sun and beach instead, I have a few tips to help you refocus.
Set Clear Goals
The first step to maintaining focus is to set specific, measurable, and achievable goals. Summer can blur our sense of urgency, so it's important to remind yourself of the targets you need to hit, and what will happen if you do (or don’t, but think of the positives!). Break larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks and set deadlines for each. This is always helpful, but especially in those hotter months when you’d rather be drinking a coconut.
Revamp Your Work Environment
If you’re not taking a vacation soon, bring a bit of summer to your workspace. Natural light can boost your mood and energy levels, so try to position your desk near a window. And get everything the right temp —too hot and you might find yourself feeling lethargic; too cold, and discomfort might distract you. And honestly, why not have a coconut at your desk? If it helps with the vibes, it’s worth it. Sticking to a routine can also boost productivity in the slow, sunny months. Try to start and end your day at the same time as you do during the rest of the year.
Break a lot
Not bones – you might need those for surfing! Taking work breaks in the vacay season is particularly critical. It might seem counterintuitive, but taking regular breaks can actually increase productivity. Step outside for a short walk, or just sit and soak in some sunlight for a few minutes. I mean, the weather’s great, so you may as well enjoy it!
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can be a real issue in the summer. Keep a water bottle at your desk and snack on fruits and vegetables throughout the day. I’m a massive fan of the Gatorade Zero powdered packets; you can buy in bulk and keep them at your desk. Electrolytes will set you free! Oh, and don’t forget the coconut.
Plan Your Leisure Time
One of the best ways to ensure you remain productive at work is to have planned leisure activities to look forward to. If you can’t go out to a summer vacation, bring the summer vacation to you. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, an evening barbecue, or just watching Bridget Jones for the 45th time, having specific plans can help you compartmentalize your leisure and work time and get through those slow summer work days.
