Four Ways to Make the Most of Your Summer While Working Full-Time

Summer is here—and if you're working full-time, it can feel like the season is slipping by while you're at your desk. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a few mindful shifts, you can savor the spirit of summer without putting your responsibilities on hold.

Here are four simple, soul-nourishing ways to enjoy summer while working full-time:

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1. Refresh Your Commute

Take advantage of summer’s longer, brighter days by changing how you get to work.

If you're within walking or biking distance, try commuting under your own power—soaking up morning sunshine and moving your body before the day begins. Not feasible? Drive partway and walk the rest, or simply explore a walking path before or after work. These small changes can uplift your mood and add a little adventure to your routine.

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2. Make Your Schedule Summer-Friendly

Summer is a great time to experiment with a more flexible or spacious workday.

Consider starting earlier and ending earlier so you can make the most of warm summer evenings. Or take a cue from the Mediterranean lifestyle—enjoy a longer lunch break with rest, connection, or play, then return to work refreshed. If your work allows, front-load your week so Friday afternoons are lighter and open for summer fun.

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3. Take Advantage of Your Lunch Break

I often speak about the importance of using your lunch break for mental, physical, and social wellbeing. In summer, take it to the next level:

• Eat lunch outside in the fresh air
  
  
• Meet a friend or colleague for a midday meal
  
  
• Go for a short walk in a nearby park or quiet neighborhood
  
  
• Try a longer break that includes rest or a power nap
  
  

These simple changes can help break up your day and leave you feeling recharged.

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4. Plan Microadventures

The New York Times calls microadventures “short, perspective-shifting bursts of travel closer to home.” These mini escapes are perfect for busy lives and can help you stay connected to nature, novelty, and joy.

Try:

• A midweek evening hike or paddle on a local lake
  
  
• A Saturday morning visit to a new neighborhood or park
  
  
• A weekend getaway to a nearby small town, beach, or forest trail
  
  

Even just a few hours in a new setting can shift your mindset and help you feel like you’ve really had a summer.

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You don’t need a long vacation to enjoy summer.

With intention and creativity, you can weave joy, adventure, and presence into your everyday life.
What’s one thing you’ll try this week to make the most of your summer?

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