With summer upon us, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy some ‘me time’! Whether that means going on a dream vacation, training for a fall marathon, or sipping daiquiris on your front porch, we’ve got you covered! Keep reading for some fun and fabulous ideas for making this the best summer ever!

Accomplish a Goal

Summer time is a great time of year to focus on yourself and your goals, whether they’re personal—such as finally finishing that classic novel or running a 5-minute mile—or career-oriented, such as landing a top client or getting that promotion. Before the summer slips away, take an afternoon or evening to really sit down and focus on what you want to accomplish over the next few months.

Summer time can be hectic – especially if you have kids home from school – but it can also be a slow time at work or school, with the longer days making us naturally more productive. So take advantage of those few extra hours of sunlight and use them to your advantage!

Stop & Smell the Roses

Another great idea for summer ‘me time’ is to literally stop and smell the roses. Many varieties reach their peaks from June to August, so take some time to visit a local rose garden or botanical park to enjoy one of nature’s most fragrant creations.

If there isn’t a local garden or park for you to visit, consider taking some time this summer to plant your own flowers, herbs, or other plants. Think of how delicious your own freshly grown basil will taste in summer pasta salads, or the beautiful bouquets you can make in the spring by planting some tulip and daffodil bulbs in August? If you plant tomatoes in your garden right away, you may even be able to enjoy the fresh and juicy results before the summer is over!

Get Creative in the Kitchen

Speaking of fresh summer gardens – why not take the opportunity this summer to try out some new recipes? There are loads of delicious fruits and vegetables in season, making it the perfect time of year to get a little creative in the kitchen. In addition, spending some quality ‘me time’ in the kitchen is a great way to de-stress, as the chopping and cutting helps to alleviate any anxiety, and the sense of accomplishment upon completing a recipe is hard to beat!

Give traditional pasta salad an Italian twist by roasting zucchini, squash, and garlic in the oven before tossing with orzo pasta and Italian dressing, or use fresh strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries to make a summer fruits crumble that will go down a treat at any picnic or barbecue!

Kick Back & Relax

While summer is a great time to try new things and accomplish goals, it should also be a time of rest and relaxation. So go ahead – take a long lunch break or leave the office a bit early on Friday, spend a whole day at the beach or pool without feeling guilty, and allow yourself that extra glass of wine (or margarita!). You deserve it!