If you're like most people right now, you miss vacations, weddings, concerts, sports, and all the other fun things that summer is supposed to be about.
It's easy to feel disappointed, or downright depressed. Many people are just accepting that this summer sucks.
But it doesn't have to be that way. Here are two strategies to help you enjoy what's left of your summer.
The human brain is wired to seek out problems. On the one hand, that's a good thing. It helps you avoid danger. But if you don't regularly remind yourself of what’s going well, you lose perspective. You begin to believe that nothing good is happening in the world.
It's important to reflect on the good things in your life. One way to do this is to make a long list of all of your blessings and frequently look at it.
Can't think of anything? Then get super basic. Do you have friends, family, and a roof over your head? Write it down. Count your blessings. Literally. For some guidance on gratitude, check out my previous blog, Your New Morning Routine for Success.
Another way to get some quick perspective is to compare this year to some of the other challenges of history. Think back to tough times like World War II and the Great Depression. A lot of people persevered and got through it. So too will you this year.
Instead of focusing on what you can't do this summer, focus on what you can do.
For example, if you can't play your favorite team sport, try tennis. If you can't travel to your favorite summer destination, visit an unexplored local tourist attraction. You'd be surprised. There's lots of interesting places to see in your local area.
Recently, I started exploring parks around Berkeley, California, where I have lived for over 20 years. I was astounded. There were so many beautiful parks I had never seen. It was like I was on an exotic vacation in my own backyard.
Here are some more creative suggestions for you:
Rediscover your primal roots. Humans evolved as hunter gatherers. We are built for hiking. A great way to forget about the terrible and tumultuous events of this year is to get out and see some nature.
There are plenty of hiking trails out there, many with few or no people around.
This link to 15 ultimate American hikes might inspire you.
There's fewer cars on the road right now, so why not get out and ride a bike? What other vehicle allows you to combine exercise with speed, plus the convenience to park anywhere?
Look into bike routes in your area, or try Google Map’s bicycle feature. Don’t have a bike? Go to your local bike shop and read this before you shop.
If you live in a city, why not explore new streets and neighborhoods? Before Covid, most urbanites had a set routine and a long commute. There was little time to venture out and see new places.
Now, depending on your situation, you might have more time. If you can, get out and explore the nooks and crannies of your zip code. Here's some more info on urban hiking.
Covid, social restrictions, and the tumultuous events of this summer are enough to demoralize anybody. But one thing we can control is our mindset.
From time immemorial there have been terrible things happening on this planet. There's always something negative to focus on. But there are plenty of great things happening too.
We can acknowledge our problems, yes. And at the same time we can focus on the blessings that surround us. It's time to get perspective, be creative, and take positive action.
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