Summer vacation is the perfect time of year to take a break from your studies and try something new. As well as planning a trip abroad or staycation, you could try to use your time off school to develop the soft skills future employers will look for and keep your brain stimulated in other ways. If you get organized you can fit in plenty of fun activities that will also be beneficial for your well-being. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Volunteer work
Volunteer work will teach you many skills including problem-solving, communication, leadership, and teamwork. Helping out those in need is very rewarding and it also has many other benefits. It allows you to gain a fresh perspective on things, learn from others, and can even help to boost your self-esteem. Look for a cause that resonates with you and dedicate a little time to making the world a better place this summer. You can easily find volunteer opportunities online.
Learn something new
If there’s always been an activity you’ve wanted to try but haven’t had the time due to school constraints, then why not give it a go this summer? Even if you’d simply like to get more into cooking, take a dance class, or try your hand at a creative hobby, these will all teach you useful soft skills for the future. New hobbies are a great way to keep your brain active as they will require a deep level of engagement and this can be very satisfying.
Mindful decluttering
It’s also a good time of year for mindful decluttering. Go through your closet and get rid of any unnecessary items. You might even find things you can sell online or donate. You could also do a slightly delayed spring cleaning of your entire place. Rid your home of dirt and debris and carry out any necessary maintenance. You could even hire a company such as Labor Panes to help you with bigger jobs such as cleaning the windows and exterior. There are many health benefits of mindful decluttering. It’s a great way to destress and unwind.
Get work experience
You could look into temporary jobs or internships to get some work experience. This will be very beneficial for your future career and even if you explore different fields you will develop new skills. Here are a few tips for gaining valuable experience while studying. If you’re in need of something at short notice you could try things like online tutoring, pet sitting, or working for a delivery company, for example. There are plenty of apps that offer this type of work.
Set realistic goals
Put aside some time to make a plan for the future. Set yourself specific, measurable goals whether you want to manage money, improve time management while studying, or learn a new skill. Break your goals down into tasks and set deadlines. This way you can monitor your progress and it will teach you how to prioritize in the future.