Before every summer starts, you make lists, goals, and plans with your friends to make this “the best summer ever.” But, for most people (myself included), this hype lasts for approximately two weeks of summer, and then your money dries up, you just can’t be bothered, or you need to watch all of the seasons of a show. But you have the power and the ability to turn this summer into whatever you want just by saying yes.
Saying no is easy, and there are always a hundred reasons why you couldn’t or you shouldn’t. Saying yes is much harder, but the rewards are much greater! Just start saying yes, live your life, and experience everything. I know sometimes it isn’t possible to say yes to things; money doesn’t grow on trees. But if you categorically can’t say yes, then provide an alternative. Here are some of my favorite things to do during my “summer of yes” on a budget:
Have a picnic. Although this may seem like an odd one to start this list off with, a picnic is a wonderful way to spend quality time with friends. Go to the grocery store, buy some fruit and some sweet treats (or just raid your pantry), grab a beach bag, and go to a park or a beach and just be present in the moment. A picnic is a great setting to enjoy quality time and the beauty of nature.
Go on day trips. This is one of my favorite things to do with my family or my friends. Pack up some food, throw on some cute swimwear and a sundress, throw on some sunscreen, and road trip to a beach or to a park. Go on an adventure, hike to a waterfall, swim in the sea, and just explore the beauty that is nature. You can see so much in a day!
Have a photoshoot. I don’t know about you, but I always find that when my friends and I say goodbye, we remember that we totally forgot to take any pictures all summer. Because of this, we are in a perpetual cycle of never having any nice pictures with each other. So be that annoying friend always pulling out the camera or your phone, and always say yes to taking tons of pictures to commemorate life. Go to the beach or even into the city and have cute photoshoots together that will become life-long memories.
This summer, and in life in general, don’t be afraid to take risks and say yes. Your time during summer and in your youth is short, and you don’t want to be looking back in 10 or 20 years and think, “Wow, I wish I had taken more chances and lived more when I was younger.” Take the chance, say yes, and live your life and your summer to it’s fullest.
How do you like to spend your summer? Leave your summer activity inspiration down below!
