Raising Boys n Barbells

Summer is here in full swing. For some reason, as we approach the Fourth of July, summer starts to really settle in for me. The days are long, the weather is at its prime, the water table and splash pad are out and most of our days are spent outside. When we think of summer it comes with sunshine, beach days, popsicles, and grilling out. However, it doesn’t always mean easy living. For some Moms that may still mean working full time, juggling the kids home from school, and jammed packed schedules. Summer will come and go, before we know it the leaves will start to fall and suddenly we are waking up to dark cold mornings and layering our clothing to stay warm. It is important we make the most of these summer days and stay motivated through the chaos and distraction it can often bring.

Plan your day

As you know, I am a big believer that planning ahead is important for productivity and accomplishing all that you need to get done as a busy mom. Summers tend to be even busier with all of the kids activities and trips making it even more important to ensure you continue your habits and routines around planning.  Plan your week ahead on Fridays, review your day every morning, create a list of the most important things to get done, and check things off your list. This will help you stay motivated and focused.

Wake up early

The best gift I have given myself is waking up early before the kids wake up. For those of you that struggle with this, summertime is the best time to give this a try. Early mornings at this time of year are fresh, warm and bright making it a bit easier to get out of bed. Those extra hours of sunshine are perfect for a walk or run outside or reading on the porch with a cup of coffee soaking in the rare moments of silence.

Take sunshine breaks

Too much sunlight has its consequences, so always be sure to wear your sunscreen this summer (at least SPF 30). However, sunshine has been proven to provide the much needed Vitamin D, help boost mood, provide an instant energy boost, and even potentially help you live a longer life. Take advantage of the sunny summer days by working by a window, taking your laptop outside, or scheduling a mid-day walk after lunch. Forward this to your boss so they know you are taking a much needed break for your health 🙂

Drink water

It is much easier to become dehydrated on these hot summer days. Make sure to keep a water bottle filled at all times and includes those electrolytes as well.

Plan your next vacation

Do you find yourself daydreaming more during the day about being at the beach or laying out in the sun reading a book?  It can be distracting in the summer while you are inside working while it seems like everyone else is outside enjoying the sun. During my workday I can hear my kids outside playing in the splash pad and throwing water balloons on a beautiful summer day. One thing that helps me stay focused is knowing I have a vacation planned and have something to look forward to. This summer my family is planning a weekend away to Lake Arrowhead to spend some time in nature, enjoy the summer sun at the lake, and make more memories together.

Take off your day off

Make sure to optimize your days off. This doesn’t mean over scheduling your day with activities, but rather make sure you are intentional about doing what matters most to you and will fill your cup. You will return to work much more refreshed and energized. This coming week my company shuts down and I plan on taking this week for myself, filling it with sleep, workouts, reading, and meeting up with friends.

What can you work on to stay motivated this summer?

Soaking up the sunshine,

ME