Embracing Summer: How to Stay Motivated at Work

The days are longer, it’s getting warmer, and the school is out. It’s summertime!

While nothing necessarily “changes” for me as a working adult when the seasons turn, staying motivated at work in the summertime takes a bit more intentional effort. Especially with having kids who are off their normal school-year route and are embracing summer.

With the right mindset and strategies, I believe it's possible to maintain productivity and enthusiasm in the workplace while still enjoying these beautiful summer days. ?Below are some ideas to help you stay motivated if you are in a similar boat as me:

1.????? Embrace a Positive Mindset

Shift your perspective by viewing work as a means to enjoy the summer season rather than an obstacle to it. Be thankful for your work and being able to earn an income.

Remind yourself of the rewards that come with a job well done, such as financial stability, career growth, and personal fulfillment. Cultivate a sense of gratitude for the opportunities that work provides, even during the summer months.

2.????? Revisit Goals and Re-Prioritize Tasks:

June marks that halfway point to Christmas and New Years (also – what!?)

Now that I’m half a year in, I can reexamine any goals I made back in January. In truth though, life happens, and sometimes those goals, no matter how well intended they were; just aren’t always as realistic as they may have seemed back in January.

Some questions that help in re-evaluating your goals are:

·???????? How do these align with my values? My beliefs?

·???????? How do I want to live my life?

·???????? Does anything need to shift?

·???????? How are the small goals I am working toward daily feeding into my overall dreams for my life?

I encourage you to take some time one morning with your morning coffee and get clear on what it is you truly are after and why.

From here, you can break those goals into manageable or prioritized tasks.

You see, by focusing on specific goals, you can maintain a sense of purpose and direction, even when distractions abound.

3.????? Create an Inspiring Work Environment

Summer is a wonderful time to clean out the old to make way for the new. Sometimes having a change of scene, even at your desk, can help inspire productivity and creativity. You can personalize your desk with items that bring you joy, whether it's a favorite plant, a photograph of loved ones, or mementos from past adventures.

My workspace has plenty of crafts made by my kids, family photos, books, and even candles.

Open a window to hear the birds chirping in the morning before it gets too hot. Sit back and just enjoy your workspace. These little changes help to enjoy the beauty of the summer season. ?

4.????? Take Advantage of Flexibility and Reward Yourself!

If your job allows for flexibility, take advantage of opportunities to incorporate rewards and outdoor activities into your workday. This can jumpstart productivity and maintain motivation.

Soak up some Vitamin D by taking a walk outside during a work call or in between work calls. Schedule a lunch with a friend during the week. Work from your patio or screened-in porch. Pick up your kids a little early from daycare one day to spend an extra hour playing outside or having a popsicle treat.

By acknowledging progress and taking breaks to recharge, you can stay motivated and refreshed throughout the day.

While the temptation to bask in the summer sun may be strong, staying motivated at work is achievable with the right mindset and strategies.

So, seize the day, embrace the sunshine, and let your passion for both work and summer fuel your motivation.