10 Things to Do to Prepare for Summer

With the kids out of school, summer is the perfect time to reconnect! It’s also a chance to go on that much-needed vacation. Although, it’s essential to beat the heat and stay productive this summer. Here are a few ways you can prepare for summer fun. 

1. Stay Active

Summer is the time to wear bathing suits and shorter dresses. So, you want to feel comfortable in your skin. Start exercising in the spring to prepare for summer festivities. You can hit the gym or take a group fitness class. Also, with the warmer weather, head outside for a nice walk or run. 

Break your workout into smaller sessions and track your progress. Also, pick activities you enjoy, such as dancing, and do these at convenient times of the day. For example, take an early online Zumba class if you’re a morning person. 

2. Create a Summer Bucket List

Sometimes the summer can feel like a lot of time to fill. You may feel guilty for wasting it just sitting in front of the television. One way to get excited about summer is by writing a bucket list. Include fun activities you have always wanted to try, such as swimming with dolphins. 

The list can help you plan a more active summer and give you things to do on vacation. Plus, imaging what you want to do can get you more pumped up. You can complete the list over multiple summers.  

3. Redesign a Room

If you’re feeling like a change, consider redecorating your space. It can freshen up a room and help symbolize new beginnings. For example, you could redo a home office or your bedroom. A fresh coat of paint is a cost-effective and simple way to add personality. 

In addition, add more decor, like wall art and plants. While redecorating, do some organizing. Put away your blankets and winter clothes. Also, clear services and get rid of unused items. 

4. Mark Important Dates on Your Calendar

You want to give yourself plenty of fun stuff to look forward to during the summer. So, schedule fun activities like plans with friends or short road trips. Plan a fun family vacation if you have more room in the budget. Then mark these on your calendar so you remember. It also gives you plenty of time to take care of all the details, such as booking the flight. 

Also, the fall can get busy, so you may forget important dates if you don’t write them down. You can also use your phone’s calendar if that is more convenient. 

5. Come up With Goals 

Your work may slow down in the summer, or you might be taking vacation days. This gives you more time to focus on yourself. Is there a goal you have been putting off for a while? Maybe you wanted to learn a new recipe or write a novel. Write these down and start planning the steps it takes to get there. 

Consider creating SMART goals, which are:

• Specific
• Measurable
• Achievable 
• Relevant 
• Time-bound 

These can help you stay focused and on track. 

6. Eat Healthily 

Along with exercising, eating nutritious meals is essential. You want to look good and feel energized. The summer is filled with active events, like swimming. So, make sure to eat your fruits and vegetables.

You need to get at least 1 1/2 to two cups of fruit per day and two to three cups of vegetables. One way to eat more healthily is to grow a backyard garden or visit your local farmers’ market. You can also find creative ways to mix vegetables into your favorite dishes, such as pasta. 

7. Stay Hydrated

During the summer, the warmer weather can make you sweat more often. This causes you to lose liquid from your body and become dehydrated faster. So, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water. Women need about 11.5 cups of water and men need 15.5 cups a day.  

Staying hydrated keeps your temperature regulated and your joints lubricated. Although, sometimes, it can be hard to remember when you’re in the midst of a fun activity. So, set reminders and carry a reusable water bottle.  

8. Change Your Air Filters 

Your filers can get clogged with dust and debris. Your HVAC system has to work harder to pump cool air when this happens. Inefficient systems can make air temperature uncomfortable and waste energy. So, regularly clean and replace the filters. 

Wash all the different parts, including the evaporator coils and outdoor blower. In addition, have a professional service your air conditioner before the start of summer. 

9. Install a Programmable Thermostat 

This device allows you to set your ideal temperature automatically. Some will enable you to control the machine from your phone for more convenience. That way, you can enjoy a cooler home during the summer months. 

Then lower the heat even more, when you’re away on vacation, saving money on your electricity bills. In fact, by turning your thermostat back 7°F-10°F, you can save 10% on your energy bills. 

10. Be Smart About Your Landscaping

Take time to plant trees and leafy shrubs near your home. These can provide shade during the warmer months. Planting vegetation is a great excuse to get outside and promotes physical activity. 

Along with health benefits, being outside can boost your overall mood. Place trees near windows to prevent excess heat from entering your home. 

How to Get Ready for Summer

The fall is the perfect time to start planning a fun-filled summer. It’s also an excellent time to get your body in shape and practice healthy eating. Plus, you want to make sure your appliances are ready for the heat. So, follow these tips to have a wonderful summer!

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