Working Girl's Guide to Celebrating Summer

POPSUGAR Smart Living

Source: Working Girl's Guide to Celebrating Summer

Students and the unemployed may covet the nine to fiver's paycheck, but any working adult will tell you she misses having a real Summer break. There's nothing like the relaxed recess between semesters - even if you have to intern or clock in somewhere. Three whole months of glorious time (or at least weekends) spent at the beach, movies, on vacation with the family and escaping the tough stuff. If you're sitting at a desk right now and you've found yourself a little bit jealous of the teenagers and college students soaking up the season between classes, be envious no more. Here's a guide to bringing a little Summer lovin' and fun back into your life despite the daily grind.

  • Spend Saturday at the Beach, Lake, or Park: You may be stuck in a cube all week, but celebrate the warm weather in nature on the weekend. It's no surprise that studies show people are happier on the weekend. Get outside and smile in the sun. With SPF, of course.

  • Enjoy a Summery Cocktail at Happy Hour (and Schmooze Too): Studies show drinking (or happy hour attendance) can boost your social capital and help you build work relationships. Celebrate your co-workers and work on your contacts over a seasonal cocktail. I can't promise it will feel like that Summer before graduation, but at least you have cuter shoes. YumSugar has some delicious summery suggestions.

  • Plan a Staycation: If you can't afford a spendy Summer vacation, plan a staycation, or nostalgic and budget-friendly college-inspired weekend. Sleep in. Make jungle juice. Eat mac and cheese. You'll relax and enjoy it and be ready to get back to work come Monday.

  • Leave the Office at Quitting Time: Don't stay at the office all night. Aim to be as productive as possible during the day so you can leave the office and enjoy the Summer air (and light!) in the evenings.

  • Stop Saving That PTO: Take a Vacation: We are more than halfway through 2010. Stop saving up your PTO and spend it on a great week or couple of days off. Go home. Go to the next town over. Go on safari. Plan carefully using our Summer travel tips and enjoy yourself. You work hard for your money. It's up to you to make your Summer.



Related Content:
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Check Out All Our Work-Life Balance Coverage Here
Check Out All Our 2011 Summer Coverage Here


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