Summer presents a unique period for scholars, devoid of conferences, deadlines, or meetings. While some may tackle a PhD chapter, the season typically lacks the structured engagements of the academic term. Summer’s allure lies in its flexibility, yet it often brings a pressure to fill every moment with activities. I’ve felt this urge—to maximise summer’s potential—driven by a desire to pursue neglected interests, peer influences, and media narratives. The prevailing notion is that summer should be “maximised,” not relaxed—a notion I find debateable.
Invest Your Time Wisely
Setting and achieving goals during summer is valuable, but not at the expense of rest. Downtime not only prevents burnout but also enhances mental performance—a wise investment for the long haul. Drawing from Daniel Goleman’s writings on Emotional Intelligence, specifically his book ‘Focus’ where he emphasizes the capacity for deep, deliberate work in spaces that allow you to effectively focus on the task at hand. I’ve come to prioritise intentionality and reconcile my inner thoughts of filling ‘spare time’ . Best performers, as Ericsson found, routinely practice moderation and consistency, taking regular breaks to sustain focus. I advocate for intentional time management, prioritising actions that align with purpose. This proactive approach allows for satisfaction by distinguishing between simply doing tasks and achieving meaningful progress.
Harriet Griffeys “mental clarity mastery” strategy to resonates with me deeply. She suggests improving your concentration amidst distractions and enhance productivity in our daily lives you can practice daily activities to master the art of concentration in an increasingly distracting world. This strategy is not just about hiding you phone or not “putting that load of washing in mid chapter” it is about being mindful of the external environment in which you are in. This can extend to you summer plans, directing energy towards key goals amidst potential distractions.
Balance Is Essential
While striving for productivity, it’s vital to embrace rest and intentional activities. Overcommitment is a common challenge, but it’s through experience that we discover what works best for us. As summer approaches, I urge you to re-evaluate its purpose. Rather than a race to achieve more, aim for equilibrium. Taking meaningful breaks and pursuing fulfilling activities should define our summer experience.
