So we hear it’s almost summer. In between four-day cloudy stretches in Portland, OR, we’re getting streaks of 80-degree weather that is perfect for picnicking, hiking, boating, traveling, and pretty much anything besides work.
Nice weather can make it a bit challenging to stay focused at the office, but the show must go on, even when the sun is shining. So how do you keep up the good work when all you can think about is all the sun-soaked adventuring you’ll do when you’re off the clock?
Here are a few of our favorite remedies for summer fever:
1. Come in early instead of staying late
Did you know that the adult brain functions best in the morning? It’s easier to get up in the summertime, when the sun rises early, too.
At Logical Position, most of our team starts work at 7 am, but I still see a surprising number of early birds at the coffee counter already getting settled at around 6:30 am. I’m not saying it’s easy, but going to work early means you get a jump start on your day and ensures that you don’t have to stay late in the evening if you have a hefty workload.
2. Take breaks and get outside as much as possible
While it’s tempting to use your break time to scroll through your Instagram feed, the outside world just on the other side of your office window is truly the best place for you to rejuvenate.
Vitamin D has been shown to help strengthen bones and fight osteoporosis, depression, heart attacks, and even cancer, according to the Harvard Health Letter. Just a few extra minutes each day can keep you sane and also help you build valuable defenses that you’ll need later on in life.
Even if it just means stepping outside and standing in the sun for a few extra minutes, spending time outside every chance you get will ensure that you don’t miss out on the fresh air and Vitamin D that is so essential for happiness and health.
3. Reorganize your workspace and/or daily routine
Never underestimate the power of change. Although you might not have control over your daily tasks or the location of your desk, you do have the power to make small changes that can help you feel like you’re in a new, fresh place. Tons of studies conclude that clutter hinders productivity. So if you’re stuck in a rut, take some time to get rid of it.
You don’t have to do anything too crazy — maybe just replace that three-year-old photo of your family, clean out your desk, or hang some new artwork. And it might be helpful to simply reorganize your daily schedule, so that if you’re used to doing one thing in the morning, now you’re doing it in the afternoon.
4. Start a new hobby
Outside of work, summer is a time for trying new things. Progression toward a worthy goal can improve your sense of general well-being and happiness, so you’ll likely find that this helps you find more satisfaction during your days at the office, as well.
Go ahead — plant a garden. Join a beach volleyball team. Take up running. Your time is now!
5. Eat healthy & exercise
Because of all the activity and all the readily-available fresh fruit and vegetables, eating healthier in the summer is much easier. Having a few fresh snacks on hand can make the work day much more enjoyable, and sunlight increases serotonin levels, says Dr. Oz, which makes summer an ideal time to diet.
Along with the obvious benefits that come with a healthy diet, exercise can help your memory and concentration capacity, according to Harvard Medical School. It can also improve your sleep and make it much easier to sit at your desk all day.
6. Work hard, play hard
Despite your best efforts, sometimes those days are just gonna drag. At times like these, remind yourself that the best way to enjoy your evenings, weekends, and vacation time is to be great at your job. If you’re great at your job, you can leave the office at the office and relax when you get home, when you’re playing kickball, and when you’re sitting by the beach with a mojito.
Happy almost Memorial Day everyone!
…now get back to work 😉
