Do yourself a Favor This Summer

Calling attention to all parents, do yourself a favor this summer. Open up your daily schedule, delete a third of your items each day, and reschedule at least three things that you enjoy. If your child was sick or there was a family member in the hospital, you would find time for that. Put yourself first. The only person who’s going to take care of you is you, no one else.

While venturing out today to do some errands, I couldn’t help notice how uptight and stressed so many seemed. From being snapped at by a cashier to almost getting run over in a crosswalk from a car in a big hurry, we all need to reschedule some fun.

It can be as small as a stroll through an open aired mall during your lunch breaks to as big as a surprise for your kids with a day at the beach. Simply call in sick or use one of your personal days. Maybe go to Starbucks in the middle of the day for a frappuccino or pull over at a local park and walk barefoot in the grass while taking deep breaths of the summer air. Whatever it is, schedule it. Put yourself first and take these extra moments during your summer to connect with you!

Be sure to do these things without your phone in hand. Take these moments off the grid for a bit. Maybe use your phone to take a beautiful picture or call your loved ones just to say hi!

Since the sun rises early in the summer, plan a short walk while it’s still a bit cool. It can take place right around your neighbor. If you have to, drive to a spot and enjoy the view. Not only will you help your body’s health, you will help connect your mind and spirit. Notice all the flowers and birds out this time of season. Take this time to be grateful for all you have, plan the lucky person you’re going to bless that day, and remember to shine your light for those who are in the dark right now.