In summer, with longer days, kids out of school, and a more relaxed schedule, it’s easy to get out of the good habits you’ve established and let go of the systems that keep you productive. Lazy summer days sound wonderful until you remember everything that is waiting for you back at the office. So, how do you enjoy your summer and stay productive without burning out? Here are five tips that are sure to help:
1. Create a System for Productivity
Set up a system that helps you maintain a daily practice of reviewing and planning. Whether it is at the end of the day or the first thing in the morning, take a few minutes to review where you are and prioritize your tasks.
- Determine the top three tasks that need your attention
- Schedule the toughest tasks for the part of your day when you have the most energy and focus
- You may not complete these tasks, but you will make progress
- Choose three more tasks that are quick and easy to complete
- Complete these tasks in between your other tasks or all at once
This process ensures that you will devote time to the most important projects and keep them moving forward. Including the quicker, easier, or more enjoyable tasks sets you up for success each day. You will get the important things done and check more off of your task list. Being and feeling productive without the expectation to do it all at once helps stave off summer burnout.
2. Take Advantage of Downtime
If summer is less hectic than other times of the year, make the most of the extra time to strategize, revisit goals, and plan. Ask yourself a few questions:
- How am I doing on reaching my goals?
- Are there any changes I need to make to keep on course for the year?
- What things are going well?
- How can I improve my processes?
- Is there something new I can learn or a skill I can develop?
- What fall projects can I get a jump start on that will set me up for future success?
On the other hand, if summer has you running from event to event, the next tip might be more helpful for you. If this is the case, set a time on your calendar to review these questions later. Recognize when it is time to perform and produce and when it is time to reflect and recharge.
3. Give Yourself a Break
It’s tempting to work longer and harder to make up for time away from the office, but this can set you up for major summer burnout. When you are tired, stressed, or overworked, your productivity actually goes down. Give yourself permission to take a break.
- Set realistic limits on how much time you will work on a project or spend in the office each day
- Break up your work day in order to refocus, re-energize, and keep your brain active
- Go for a walk, take a few minutes to read, or simply getting a drink of water to change things up
Little breaks that provide a change of scenery can be just the recharge you need to avoid burnout.
4. Take a Vacation
Speaking of that summer vacation, don’t overlook the importance of getting away. There will always be a reason not to go, but taking a vacation from work and changing up your routine actually makes you more productive. Vacations provide that change of scenery that opens your mind to new ideas and perspectives.
- Take time to relax on the beach or breath clean mountain air
- Explore and experience new places
- Forget about the alarm clock and sleep in
Pamper yourself or challenge yourself–as long as you are stepping away from your to-do list, your inbox, and your regular routine. Come back from vacation with a clearer perspective and clearer mind, ready to tackle new projects and find new solutions.
5. Keep Things in Balance
When you are at work, follow the systems and processes you have in place to stay productive to make your time away from work guilt-free.
- Disconnect from the office and your phone
- Spend time with friends and family
- Do something you love to do
- Make time to pursue hobbies and interests
- Take advantage of those long summer nights to recharge and relax
When you make time to nurture relationships and pursue other non-work interests and efforts, your life is more balanced. This makes you more productive in and out of the office. You’ll find yourself thinking more clearly and feeling more motivated. Most of all, you’ll be able to avoid that dreaded summer burnout.
At Business Made Simple, we believe that life is more than just 9 to 5. If you are interested in systems that simplify and automate your business, we’d love to help. Click here to schedule a free strategy session, or check out our Fast Track Consulting to create a business that runs itself.