What were those goals we set to start the summer? I always start the summer with high hopes of new adventures and plans to organize and start fresh. The past few years, I’ve actually made lists of the must-dos and the want-to-dos so I can try to achieve more of the summer goals I set.
So what do those goals look like?
For me, the summer is all about balance. Balance the new and the old, health and wellness with fun and excitement, and we can’t forget about the home and general life stuff. I have my goals, my daughter’s goals, and our shared goals to take into consideration.
New and Old
Every summer, there are some activities that have become traditions. We plan at least one trip to the beach, sometimes overnight, but sometimes just for the day. We have our Fourth of July celebrations that have also turned into birthday celebrations. Also, we try to schedule at least one concert. Plus, the Sterling Fair is an annual tradition.
Two years ago, I decided I would create bucket lists for activities and places to visit. Having summers off allows me more flexibility, and it gives my daughter and me a chance to build new memories together. These activities include hikes, splash pads, bookstores, and museums, along with anything else that comes along.
Health and Wellness
If I had to identify my preferred workout, it would be hiking. I enjoy the fresh air and scenery, and it feels like less of a “workout” to me. So as the weather improves, we do more hiking. A few times a year, we will hike Wachusett Mountain in Princeton, and the rail trail, specifically in West Boylston, has become a frequently visited trail where my daughter can bike or scooter along with me.
Reading is a form of self-care for me. I read year-round, but summer allows for more reading and more library visits. Many libraries and bookstores do summer reading challenges to encourage everyone to read outside of school.
My goals this year are to add new hiking trails and mountains. I also want to try out new self-care activities, if for no other reason than to see if they’re worth all the hype. I also want to visit new libraries and bookstores.
Fun and Excitement
I already mentioned some of the traditions and ongoing activities we do. We already have a few days scheduled in Lake George coming up, which my daughter and I are looking forward to. But I want to try new things – take a spur-of-the-moment day trip to visit the natural springs in New Hampshire or go to Block Island. Maybe we will visit every splash pad in Central Mass or check in every state park.
This year, my goal is to be more spontaneous. I have a list of about 20 new places to check out. Within that, I want to do some of them with my daughter and possibly other family or friends, but some are just for me.
The Must-Dos
The dreaded list of never-ending chores around the house…I’m sure some people like these tasks, but for me, they are the activities that I have to do as an adult, but don’t necessarily want to do. However, I will say there is something wonderful about a freshly mowed lawn or newly organized closet that brings that sense of accomplishment.
My goal this summer is to declutter and get rid of those items that I’ve been saving and will never actually need again. Donate that “just in case” outfit (or 10) that I haven’t worn in years.
Our Summer Goals
Here is a quick list of my specific goals for the summer:
- Hike at least two new trails per month
- Visit and hike at least one mountain we’ve never been to
- Increase the pace of my walking/jogging
- Visit a Salt Room – solo trip
- Participate in the local library challenge
- Read at least 12 books (4 for my daughter)
- Check out a children’s museum
- Visit a new library or bookstore each week
- See friends and family at least twice per month
- Visit at least 3 state parks
- Take a spontaneous day trip
- Clean out our closets
- Organize the basement
- Be ready for the start of school in August!
Taking a Closer Look
The first few weeks of summer are typically uneventful for us. We check off some of those traditions and play at the parks nearby. We see friends and family, have picnics, and cook on the grill. Now, as the halfway mark for summer approaches, it’s crunch time. Let’s look at those goals and see where we are. It’s time to really focus on what goals we have and where we are with each one. If you haven’t set goals, it’s not too late. Sit down with your kids and see what goals they have. How can you support them within your goals? If you are struggling, start small – set a one-time goal that is attainable and build from there. Or write a list of ideas and don’t set a specific goal. The purpose of this isn’t for one more thing to add to your plate. It should be meaningful and beneficial to you! Have fun, or what’s the point?
