Summer is a season of contradictions. Let’s talk about it.
It can feel impossible to balance the expectations of summer; to get sun, but also protect your skin; to go on vacation, but also to save money; to relax and recharge, but also to say yes to every invite. Here are some tips on managing these contradictions and ways to protect your mental health throughout the summer.
How do I enjoy the sun and stay safe?
A good balance might look like…
Visiting the beach while ALSO reapplying sunscreen every two hours, staying hydrated, and wearing sunglasses and a hat.
Sitting in the shade while outdoors between 10 AM and 4 PM (when the sun rays are most intense).
Deciding to exercise or spend time outdoors in the morning or the evening when it’s cooler.
Identifying when you feel sensitive to the heat and seeking a cooling station or air-conditioned space.
Opting for that long-sleeved shirt instead of a short-sleeved shirt while going outside.
How can I still enjoy my summer without experiencing social burnout?
Don’t measure your summer against someone else’s summer.
While scrolling on your social media feed, you may feel that you’re “not doing enough” or “missing out.” Social media is not a complete picture of someone’s life. Focus on yourself and your own goals. Respect your needs. Remember, there is nothing wrong with taking a social media break or muting stories.
Create dedicated times in your calendar to unwind.
Consider passing on plans you aren’t really looking forward to.
Change the format of your hangouts to make them more feasible.
“If you’re invited to a party, don’t feel obligated to stay the entire evening. If you know you don’t have the energy for an in-person catch-up, suggest a phone call instead.”
Assess yourself for social burnout symptoms like fatigue, irritability, or difficulty focusing on conversations. Take a break if you need to, and communicate boundaries you’ve set to friends and family who ask to make plans.
- “Hey, I’ve been feeling really tired recently and need some time to recuperate. Thank you for the invite, but I can’t attend your barbecue tomorrow. Maybe we can grab dinner next week?”
Go on vacation…save money?
Saving money while you’re traveling:
Set out a budget for your trip and check in on your budget during your vacation.
Book restaurants, hotels, and flights in advance.
Find out if there are any discounts (check sites like Groupon or Viator).
Opt for connecting flights, as they are often less expensive.
Travel with friends (so you can split expenses).
Look for free attractions and activities like walking tours.
Use public transportation.
Sometimes a vacation isn’t in the budget. Here are some tips to have a staycation…
Be a tourist in your own area! Check out free or low-cost sites or walking tours.
Research deals like free days at museums.
Browse local stores or thrift shops.
Look for nearby hiking trails.
Have a picnic in the park!
Stay in a nearby hotel for the night.
Have a spa day. Go get a manicure or a massage.
Eat at a local restaurant you’ve never been to before or try a cooking class.
Sources
https://www.wellandgood.com/social-burnout-symptoms/
https://fortune.com/well/2022/09/12/what-is-social-exhaustion-tips-to-beat-it/
https://www.talkspace.com/blog/comparing-yourself-to-others-summer/
https://www.ramseysolutions.com/personal-growth/how-to-stop-comparing-yourself-to-others
https://www.bfi.co.id/en/blog/fomo-adalah-penyebab-ciri-ciri-dan-cara-mencegahnya
https://www.peacheycounselling.ca/blog/2021/that-summer-feeling-and-how-summer-can-impact-mental-health
https://www.cancer.net/blog/2015-07/10-tips-protecting-your-skin-sun
https://www.debt.org/advice/traveling-on-a-budget-tips-to-save/
https://travelnoire.com/50-ways-save-money-while-on-vacation