Summertime is supposed to be fun. But it's also supposed to be productive by doing an internship or having some other transcript-building activity lined up for the summer. However, if you don't have anything in the works yet, don't panic. There are so many great ways to stay productive this summer and have a little fun too.
Start Your Own Small Business
Every day, more and more people decide to go into business for themselves, even teens.
In order to start a business, you first have to decide what kind of business you want to start. You could do a service-based business such as babysitting, lawn care, or cleaning. These kinds of businesses are fairly easy to start because the product is you and your time.
Another kind of business you could start is a product-based business. These kinds of businesses are a little more complicated because not only do you have to create a product, but you have to be able to keep up with demand. However, if you love the idea of creating something completely from scratch, this type of business might be a good option for you.
Next, you need to figure out if there will be any startup costs. If there is, start saving money so that you will be able to start your business.
Remember to check the regulations in your area before you start your business so that you can make sure to have all the proper documentation if necessary.
Take A Class
Give yourself a head start for next year by taking a class over the summer. Many community colleges and recreation centers offer a variety of classes that you can take over the summer even if you are still in high school.
Think about what you would be interested in learning about, and then see what classes are available in your area.
You can also take classes online if you can't find any local classes that interest you.
Write A Book
Have you ever dreamed of walking into a bookstore and seeing your own book on the shelf?
This summer you can work towards that dream becoming a reality by writing that first draft or pulling out an old story you never finished.
The first thing you should do is to figure out what kind of story you want to tell. You don't have to outline your entire story, but it's good to have at least an idea of what your story is about.
Next, comes the hardest part, actually sitting down to write. You should try to consistently sit down to work on your book even if you don't write every day. Keep at it until you feel like you've reached the end of your story.
For more on learning how to write, here are a few resources:
Take Up A Hobby
During the school year, nearly everything revolves around grades and school-related activities. But once school's out, there's a lot more time to pursue other things.
Think about what interests you. Is there an old hobby that you love, but haven't done in a while?
Here are ideas to get you started:
- Sewing
- Exercise
- Reading
- Playing an Instrument
- Singing
- Hiking
- Photography
You can even take up more than one hobby if your schedule allows, and keep up with it when school starts again.
Volunteer
Doing something for the people in your community is a great way to fill your time this summer.
Find out what kind of organizations work in your area, and make a list of all the organizations you think sound interesting. Then call around and see if any of them are taking volunteers. Often, places like humane societies and food banks are looking for new volunteers.
Take A Road Trip
Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is to get away from it all and recharge. If you have the means, take a road trip this summer.
First, set a budget for the entire trip, including a little extra for emergencies. Then decide where you want to go and which route you're going to take, (Google Maps is a big help with this), and when you're going to go.
Once you get the details worked out, start packing for your summer excursion.
Become A Lifeguard
One of the most respected jobs a teenager can have is a lifeguard at a local pool or aquatic center.
To become a lifeguard, you generally have to pass a swimming test, as well as be CPR certified. On top of that, some states and cities may have additional regulations, so check and make sure you have all the proper certifications.
Learn A New Language
Being bilingual is a huge advantage in today's world as the ability to speak more than one language is a highly sought-after skill.
If you are already learning a language at school, then you can continue to work on it through the summer or start learning an entirely new language altogether.
One of the best ways to work on your language skills is through an app such as Duolingo, which allows you to practice, reading, writing, and speaking for free.
Start A YouTube Channel Or Podcast
Do you love to talk? Why not start a YouTube channel or podcast where you can talk about whatever you want?
Every channel or podcast should have a theme. For example, Beauty and Style, Vlogs, News, Comedy, How-To's, etc.
Starting a YouTube channel is super easy. All you need to do is start an account and start uploading videos.
If you want to start a podcast, Spotify has a platform called Anchor that allows you to create your own podcast.
Once you decide which platform you're going to use, start putting together content. Don't rush to get your content out. Instead, make sure that what you put out is your absolute best work.
Start A Savings Jar
Saving up for something you want is one of the most grown-up things you can do.
One way to do this is to start a jar where you put all of your extra cash and change. (An old pickle or salsa jar works well.) Decorate it with stickers, markers, glitter glue, or whatever you want.
Write what you are saving for on the side of the jar, and any time you find some spare change, put it in your jar.
Participate In Community Events
Nearly every city or town has special events during the summer months. If you haven't ever taken the time to get out and participate in your community, you then take some time to do so.
Most towns advertise events in the newspapers, on the radio, and even on Facebook. Many larger towns also have bloggers that keep track of events in town.
Pick one or two events to attend, (bonus points if they're free!) and spend some time getting to know the people around you.
Summer can be productive in more ways than one, and sometimes spending your time doing something you enjoy is the most productive thing you can do.
