With sunny skies currently outside, it's easy to find yourself gazing out the office window and daydreaming of sandy beaches and frozen margs. But the reality is that deadlines are looming and projects are in full swing. So how do you stay focused and productive when all you want is to be on vacation? Here are some of our best strategies to beat a summer slump and maintain your work ethic even when your mind is drifting towards that upcoming getaway.
Bring a bit of (insert dreamy tropical island) into your office space. This could mean adding an adorable and small potted palm tree or succulent, or even switching up your desktop wallpaper to an ocean scene or sunset skyline. Another idea is to infuse your space with beachy scents like coconut or ocean breeze from a candle, room spray, or the like. This small hint of summer can make work feel less like a chore and ramp up the anticipation of any planned vacations.
Build smaller "vacations" into your workday to recharge. This could look like taking a 10-minute break to sit outside and soak up some sun or possibly changing up your playlist to have more beachy vacation vibes. You could also indulge in a quick meditation and visualize your favorite vacation spot and your favorite activities there. These micro-breaks can refresh your mind without derailing your productivity.
Set small, achievable work goals and reward yourself with summer treats upon completion. Maybe it's a fancy iced coffee after finishing a report, or a lunchtime walk to the local ice cream shop when you hit a project milestone. Associating work with summer pleasures can motivate you to stay on task.
Incorporate summer into your work wardrobe! Even if your office dress code is strict, you can still find little ways to turn office chic into vacation chic. Think bright, tropical nail polish, a subtle floral print blouse, or even wear that waterproof jewelry you’d bring to the beach. These small touches can help keep you in a sunny frame of mind.
Time management techniques like the Pomodoro Method can work wonders for staying focused. With the Pomodoro Method, you work intensely for 25 minutes and follow with a 5-minute break. During your breaks, indulge in adding to your vacation Pinterest board or flip through photos from past trips. Use that vacation longing as motivation to power through your work sprints.
Say goodbye to the cafeteria or a desk lunch and instead head outside for an outdoor picnic (even if it's just at a nearby park bench!). The change of scenery, fresh air, and natural light can boost your mood and energy for the afternoon. Pack a summer-inspired lunch like a Caprese salad or a mango chicken wrap to add to the vibe — yum!
You could also use your lunch break to research and plan your next real vacation. Having something tangible to look forward to can definitely make the present workday more bearable. Plus, the act of planning can satisfy some of that wanderlust, helping you refocus on your tasks for the time being.
Hydration is key for staying alert and productive, especially in summer. Make it fun by infusing your water with fruits like citrus and berries, or tropical flavors like pineapple and mango. It's like a mini-vacation in a glass, and as an added benefit can even help you cut down on sugary beverages!
Plan small "adventures" after work to give you something exciting to look forward to. Try a new local open-air restaurant or take an evening bike ride. There might be a community garden you could visit, or look to catch a free outdoor concert. These activities can scratch that summer itch without taking you too far from work or home.
If your job allows it and your boss is on the chill side (fingers crossed!), take advantage of flexible summer hours. Starting earlier will let you work during those cooler morning temps and leave you with more daylight after work for summertime activities. Or you could work longer hours Monday through Thursday to enjoy a three-day weekend more often if allowed.
It isn’t easy staying productive when you'd rather be lounging on a beach. But with these strategies, you can satisfy your summer cravings while staying on top of your work game. So go ahead, put on your vacation playlist, sip your fruit-infused water, and tackle that to-do list with the same energy you'd bring to planning your vacation outfits. Remember, fall and cooler weather will come soon enough, so make the most of the summer sunshine while you can, even if it's just from your office window.
