Embrace the Summer
Summer is almost upon us, and in my mind, it doesn’t just herald the beginning of a season, but a new year – odd as it may sound. It’s a period when life typically slows down, creating room for travel, adventures, exploration of new ideas, places, hobbies, books, and more. It presents an opportunity to unlearn and relearn, to welcome new experiences and embark on a journey of self-guided learning.
- Read Voraciously: Read every day. Think of your mind as an uncharted island and books as treasure chests waiting to be opened. Explore diverse genres, languages, or authors. Walk into a bookstore or library and grab the first book that catches your eye. Forget about the author or topic – let yourself be surprised.
- Try a New Hobby: Consider hobbies that pique your curiosity. Maybe it’s knitting or perhaps learning to play the ukulele. As Oliver Burkeman writes in Four Thousand Weeks, “In order to be a source of true fulfillment, a good hobby probably should feel a little embarrassing; that’s a sign you’re doing it for its own sake.”
- Touch the Grass: Step outside; immerse yourself in the simple act of walking. Experience the tranquillity of an early morning stroll or the exhilaration of a mountain hike. If you’re longing for a touch of child-like wonder, there’s no better way than kicking off your shoes and feeling the grass beneath your feet.
- Grow Something: Take up gardening or pay a visit to a farm or a botanical garden. You’ll not only contribute to Mother Earth but also gain insights into nurturing and growth – metaphors deeply connected to our creative processes.
- Start a Logbook or Diary: Begin a logbook – a sanctuary for your thoughts and observations. The practice of documenting daily experiences can reveal fascinating patterns of self-awareness.
- The Cinema Companion: Surrender to the magic of cinema. Watch movies that captivate you, provoke thought, or elicit bursts of laughter. Consider creating your own mini-movie using your phone or a handy camera. You’ll be amazed at the stories waiting to be told through your unique perspective.
- Be Lazy: Embrace the art of idleness. Relish in late mornings, leisurely afternoons, and the privilege of doing nothing. Consider designating one day each week to disconnect from digital devices and let your soul breathe freely.
- Get Out of Town: Travel. It could be a trip to a place you’ve always dreamed of visiting or a spontaneous road trip to the next town. Remember, traveling doesn’t necessarily alleviate your problems; instead, it casts them in a different light.
- The Magic of Water: Water holds an enchanting magic. Whether you’re swimming in the ocean, floating on a lake, or simply enjoying a peaceful bath, these moments of solitude can ignite brilliant reading experiences or even creative epiphanies.
- Do What You Want to Do: Pursue what brings you joy, unapologetically. Whether it’s baking cookies at midnight or dancing in the rain, if the path to fun seems hazy, look around. Notice those who are living their best lives and let their zest guide you.
Life enjoyment is more about the journey than the destination. Summer is a perfect reminder of this, so take the time to savor it.
