The official student newspaper of Lower Merion High School since 1929

The Merionite

The official student newspaper of Lower Merion High School since 1929

The Merionite

The official student newspaper of Lower Merion High School since 1929

The Merionite

How to be productive during summer

Hannah Cohen shares some great ideas on what you can be productive this summer if you are scrambling to find something.
Graphic by Annie Zhao ’24

Once that last bell rings and school is out, the excitement is overwhelming. And while the initial wave of joy lasts for a while, it can fade away once you don’t know what to do with yourself. It can be extremely easy to get stuck in an unproductive cycle. The ten weeks of summer we are given is a huge chunk of time, and there is no need for it to go to waste. These are some of the things that you can do to spend your summer in the best way you can.

The first step to this productivity is to have a balanced and set routine. According to Northwestern medicine, “An effective routine can help reduce stress, which can lead to better mental health, more time to relax, and less anxiety.” If you keep your sleep schedule during the week consistent with only a little fluctuation, it will already get you on track. After a long year, relaxing and taking care of yourself is the most important piece to a successful summer. Doing something beneficial for your mind each day can make a huge difference.This could include doing a 5-minute journal every morning, listening to productivity podcasts, or even something as simple as making your bed each morning. In Charles Duhigg’s book “The Power of Habit,” he noted that making your bed establishes a direct link to better productivity and overall health. Even a task as simple as that can jump start your day.

Another way to stay active in the summer is to be outside as much as you can. After the brutally cold winters we endure, taking advantage of the warm weather is a must. Going for walks, bike riding, or heading to the many parks in our township like South Ardmore or General Wayne is a fun and great way to spend your days. Additionally, practicing for fall sports on Arnold field, hanging out on the LM turf, or using the wall to better your lacrosse skills is available throughout the months as well. According to the Mayo Clinic, everyone should “aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day.” When the busy school days start back up, it gets harder and harder to maintain fitness goals, so summer is a great time to center your focus.

Lastly, hobbies that you thought you would never have time for are a perfect fit for the break. Learning a new language, practicing an instrument, getting ahead on school work for next year, and SAT/ACT preparation can fill your days and mind. It’s important to have creative outlets and tasks to increase your stimulation throughout the whole year, not just the school year. There are various art classes, job opportunities, and more that are all local and in the area. There are also nearby camps such as the JCC that you could apply to be a counselor at or lifeguard by attending lifeguarding classes that are offered for any age. If possible, early college programs, teen tours, and trips are an exciting way to fill your weeks as well. However, if you don’t spend time traveling during the summer, there are tons of zoom classes, even with college credit, available to apply for. 

The summer is a valuable time that you should not take for granted. There are endless fun, engaging, and beneficial opportunities to immerse yourself in. However, don’t forget to rest and relax after the hard work you put in during school, you deserve it!

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