We can all feel it. It is now the end of the 2022-2023 school year, and I think we all can agree on how fast this year flew by! With roughly three weeks of classes left, summer is approaching fast, and I am beginning to get in that headspace again and I could not be more excited to experience sunshine, tan skin and warm summer nights for three straight months. Since it’s been a while since the last summer, I want to share my non-negotiable rules and reminders for warm weather, and I hope you will think about incorporating them into your 2023 summer.
1) Sun Protection.
This rule is number one in my book for a reason. Ladies, if you are still not utilizing some sort of sun protection every day, let this reminder be your last and final one. I cannot begin to stress the importance of protecting your skin from UV rays. With so many affordable sunscreen options, cute hats and beach coverups, there is no reason why you should not be using at least of these options for those sunny days. Personally, I use a lightweight face sunscreen every day in the summer (Super Goop and EltaMD are my favorites), and I still get a nice tan. I promise you your skin will thank you for it in the long run, and you can still be a bronzed goddess! If I can do it, so can you.
2) Don’t forget you’re still a student.
Summer can often be the time where we forget about all responsibilities, and that includes school. Take the time you need to relax and recharge, but don’t forget to stay on top of your academic or career goals. Whether you have an internship, are taking summer classes, or are even looking at your LinkedIn when you can, it is so important to remember you’re still a student. Summer can be the perfect time to get ahead and plan for the upcoming school year if you let it.
3) Say “Yes”
Every summer I make a goal to say yes to whatever I can. Whether it’s an impromptu beach day, going to get ice cream, or even running errands with your mom, just say yes. Sure, your life might not be as fun in your hometown as it is in Durham but remember that summer is what you make of it! Try to expand out of your daily routine and make as many memories as you can.
4) Never Compare Your Summer.
This reminder is still something I admittedly struggle with myself but try to not compare your summer to other’s. Some people will be travelling to Europe in the summer and posting it constantly on their social media, and others will be working two jobs (raising my hand for that one). While it may seem like one is better than the other, the truth of the matter is revealed in how you choose to look at it. On one hand, travelling Europe is amazing and will leave you with endless memories, and on the other hand working will teach you the value of hard work, learning and responsibility, and you can still make amazing summer memories. Both options will result in a good summer, I promise.
5) Wear what you feel best in.
The last reminder I want to give is to wear whatever you feel best in and will make you most comfortable. Often times, summer means less clothes and it can be an easy opportunity for us to be hard on our bodies. Please remember that your body is not supposed to look a certain way, and you should be wearing whatever you feel best and not just what you think you need to wear in order to fit the “standards.” The social media standards placed on women and their clothing is not always helpful and it’s important to wear what feels best on you!