Ah, summer. The kids are out of school, the sun is shining, and everything is just a little bit… chaotic.
If you’re anything like me, trying to keep it all together, you know that summer can feel like a never-ending chorus of “I’m bored!” and impromptu messes. Between road trips, kids’ activities, and the constant demand for snacks, it’s a challenge to maintain any semblance of routine.
But don’t worry! We can totally handle this summer madness with a bit of flexibility and some strategic planning. Here’s how to create a routine that works, even when life gets unpredictable.
1. Embrace the Minimal Morning Routine
Mornings set the tone for the rest of the day, and during summer, they can be your secret weapon. Here’s a simple, minimal morning routine that can help you stay grounded:
- Wake Up Early: I know, I know—easier said than done. But waking up before the kids gives you that precious quiet time to center yourself. Those few moments of peace before the chaos starts can make all the difference.
- Hydrate and Move: Start with a glass of water to kickstart your metabolism. Do a quick stretch or a short workout to get your blood flowing. Even a 5-minute yoga session can make a difference. Trust me, it’s worth it.
- Plan Your Day: Take a few minutes to jot down your top priorities. This will help you stay focused and tackle the most important tasks first. I like to keep it simple—three main things to accomplish for the day.
2. Weekly Planning Sessions
At the beginning of each week, take some time to outline your priorities and plan ahead. Here’s how to make the most of your planning sessions:
- Review the Calendar: Check for upcoming events, appointments, or travel plans. This will help you anticipate busy days and plan accordingly. I make sure to account for those surprise playdates and spontaneous park trips (yay for one week down of homeschooling with success!)
- Set Weekly Goals: Identify your top three goals for the week. These could be related to work, personal projects, or family activities. Keeping the list short and sweet helps prevent overwhelm.
- Meal Planning: Plan your meals for the week to save time and reduce stress. Consider prepping ingredients or making a few dishes ahead of time. Trust me, having a plan in place makes those “What’s for dinner?” moments much less stressful.
3. Prioritize Self-Care
Taking care of yourself is essential, especially during the hectic summer months. Here are some ways to ensure self-care remains a priority:
- Schedule “Me Time”: Block out specific times in your calendar for self-care activities. This could be a yoga session, a relaxing bath, or simply reading a book.
- Stay Active: Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. This doesn’t have to mean a long workout session— even a 10-minute walk can do wonders for your mental and physical health.
- Healthy Eating: Keep nutritious snacks on hand and aim for balanced meals. Staying nourished will help you maintain your energy levels throughout the day. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh fruits and veggies, so take advantage of that!
While it’s good to have a plan, remember to build in some flexibility. Kids are unpredictable, and plans can change. Be prepared to adapt and go with the flow. Flexibility is key to staying sane during summer. Need more tips and resources to feel your best this summer? Join our Patreon Tribe at www.patreon.com/TheMetabolismMaven and get exclusive access as a member to our Feel Good Summer and 14-Day Energy Boost collections.
