Seven Deadly Summer Sins
Summer is here, so let the fun begin. But is it always fun? No, not always. Pay attention to the traps below and perhaps you will be less likely to fall into one of them.
One. Not enough sleep. Given that we have more daylight hours, it is easy to stay up too late and not get the important rest we need to re-charge our batteries. Allow yourself a night or two each week to enjoy the longer days, however, ensure you are getting at least seven hours of sleep per night the rest of the week.
Two. Over scheduling can be a problem when there are so many activities to enjoy. Look at the calendar, write down the important events you wish to attend, and block off some down time as well.
Three. Overindulging. Both adults and teens can tend to over-do the “fun factors” in the summer. Adults can drink too much, and teens and young adults can play too much. Warm evenings coupled with less structure and responsibility is good, but keep yourself in check. Hangovers can ruin a perfectly good day, and opioid toxicity is no joke. If you are going to use to have fun, please be safe. Never use alone. Our monthly death rates are still rising.
Four. Too much sun. Hot summer days are great, but sunburns and dehydration can ruin a good time. Sunstroke or skin cancer are no fun either. Alternate sun and shade, wear sunscreen and a hat, and drink lots of water. This will give you the best chance at enjoying the many great days we will have.
Five. No adventure. The summer can fly by and you can find that you haven’t done or seen anything new. Make a list of places you haven’t been before, and put them on the calendar. We live in a marvellous province and it is fun to be a tourist in your own town, or go camping, or jump in that lake!
Six. Overspending can easily happen if you are not paying attention. Make a budget for the summer and stick to it. Going into the fall with a big credit card bill is no fun.
Seven. Visitors are fun to have, but they can wear you out. Be bold enough to say no if the timing doesn’t work for you. Alternatively, if you do have guests, don’t feel the need to constantly entertain them. If they are lucky enough to have a free place to stay, keeping themselves busy should not be your job!
So get out there and enjoy your summer!
