Summer time is here! No school. Sleeping in late. Hanging at the pool. Did I say “no school?” Summer time can be a blast. But with all the free time you’re about to have, it is important that you have a game plan in place to help you navigate through the next few months of fun in the sun. Here are a few things to remember:
1. Turn off the TV. The last thing you need to be doing is sitting in front of the TV all week watching re-runs of Rob & Big or checking out who’s-beating-up-who on The Jerry Springer show. Get outside, go swimming, throw a party, make a music video, or jog 100 miles. The point is to get busy making sure you don’t waste it all away on the sofa.
2. Summer is about a lot more than just doing nothing. Set some personal goals for yourself while on break like:
- Reading a few really good books (that you’re not required to write an essay about.)
- Rocking on your music (just in case one day your American Idol moment finally happens).
- Cooking mom and dad’s favo meal and surprise them with dinner! (This might earn you a little extra brownie points on one of those nights you miss curfew.)
- Go see your grandma!
3. Spend a little time with your younger brother or sister. I know – this doesn’t seem to necessarily be the coolest way to spend your summer break. But, your sibling(s) is watching you. He/she looks up to you and wants to be like you, even if he/she never says it or shows it. Make sure you are using your influence to encourage healthy choices for your sibling(s).
4. Get crazy on your bike. Go to the gym. Swim some laps. A little exercise will help you keep those abs looking toned and rocking when fall comes around.
5. Volunteer in your community.
6. Check out my summer speaking schedule at www.Jeffreydean.com. Pack a bag, go to one of my camps, hang out with other teens, hear some great bands and listen to me speak each night!
7. Tell your parents you want a family vacation this summer. Once they stand up from hitting the ground from shock, pull out the map and start planning a family get-away. Before you know it, life at home will be no more for you. Take time to enjoy your family (and dad paying for all the vacation thrills) before you are out of the house and out on your own. I guarantee you…your future memories will thank you.
8. Dance baby, dance!
9. Say “No” to anything that could harm you or your future!
10. Have fun and enjoy every moment before the school bell rings again.
