Summer’s here – time for warmer weather, cookouts, and relaxing by the pool. But despite these enjoyable things, the changes of summer can bring their own stress with them. So here are a few tips to help you keep your cool this summer:
Keep a schedule
It’s summer, so there’s so much more time to relax, do things that you want to do, and get those odd projects done, right? Wrong. Even though the days are longer, our workloads don’t get lighter, and we try to cram even more activities into our busy days. To help keep you from sinking this summer, try sticking to a routine – going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, planning out time for activities, and setting aside time to just chill. You’ll be able to enjoy the summer fun, but also get done what you need to without sacrificing your sanity.
Get the kids involved in housework
Without the presence of school, kids have a lot more free time, which means parents have a lot more planning to do to keep them occupied. While you’re spending time keeping them entertained, why not let them spend some time helping you with the housework? Children as young as two can help out with daily chores. They can learn responsibility, and you are able take some things off your plate. Here’s a link to help give you some ideas of age-appropriate chores for your children: http://www.focusonthefamily.com/parenting/parenting-challenges/motivating-kids-to-clean-up/age-appropriate-chores
Set realistic vacation expectations
With vacation destinations offering so much to do, we tend to want to pile everything in one vacation and set our expectations high. Not only does this create stress in planning the vacation (and on our wallets), but it can also be exhausting while you’re on it and disappointing when everything doesn’t go according to plan. For this summer’s vacation, consider picking a handful of “must-do’s” and spread them out among the days of your trip. Try leaving one day in the middle of your vacation free that you can use to do that one thing the locals told you about or rest up if you need to. Things like these can help you have a more relaxing and enjoyable time and can prevent that “I need a vacation from my vacation” feeling when you get back home.
