The end of the Winter term is always an exciting one. It not only marks the completion of yet another round of co-op or class projects, but it also brings the promise of a fresh start to the summer season. A new round of spring courses, a new life as a graduated student, or an exciting work opportunity is underfoot — and there is lots to look forward to!
I for one fall into the intersection of a new graduate and experiencing a new work opportunity. I am so thankful to have a quick transition into the next step of my career, but it does bring some worries about how I can still have a fun summer, find enjoyment, and most importantly, avoid burnout.
If there is one thing that a Waterloo co-op student understands, it’s staying busy. Over a five-year program, there is a nonstop work-study transition that leaves little time for breaks in between. This last year has shown me more than ever that breaks are vital to one’s success, and it is important to prioritize activities to take care of yourself and be happy.
This summer, it is my goal to have the ultimate #HotGirlSummer: a summer focused on me and my self-esteem. I aim to find things that feed my whole self: hobbies to take care of the physical, cognitive, and social aspects of my life. I encourage you to do the same! Personally, it’s been a long time since I’ve made the effort to achieve total happiness, but there’s no time like the present to get started. The task may seem daunting, but it offers a new challenge to get to know yourself — and if you’re anything like me, a challenge is an irresistible task to take on.
So, how on earth does one even start such a project? Research, of course! Browsing articles on Her Campus is a great way to get started (I mean you’re already here, hellooo). My preferences bring me to TikTok, however, because there is nothing like the power of the For You page. The possibilities are endless. The most important thing about the summer of self-esteem is that it’s customized and focused on your goals. You can make it as fun or as serious as you want it to be.
For the physical aspect, you could consider starting a workout challenge, or learning a new exercise through online tutorials. If that’s too much too soon, maybe you’d enjoy setting a step goal and taking a daily walk around your neighborhood, or trying out that hiking trail you keep seeing on Instagram. Or, perhaps you have the workout aspect down already and just need a self-care routine that is sustainable to you and reminds you to take breaks in a busy time.
Cognitive development can include a multitude of activities as well. To me, this is the most exciting aspect to develop (but that’s just my inner nerd speaking out). Some activities I am considering are to brush up on my old French skills from high school (remember Duolingo, anyone?), starting a book club with myself to read old favourites and new adventures, and even trying out meditation and brain games online.
Socially, the pandemic has made it a challenge to connect in the ways we used to. It can be extremely frustrating and disheartening to not have the option to see and hug friends and family. And yes, the Zoom call fatigue has hit hard, too. But, that doesn’t mean it can’t be done. Keeping the group chat going, scheduling calls when you can, and hopefully moving toward masked outdoor gatherings will be available in the future. Until then, we need to get creative and make new memories, together and apart, to foster connections. Staying social is crucial to having a happy summer and developing the best versions of ourselves and each other!
I wish you all the best in the upcoming semester. I hope that you all have a great summer full of self-love, self-development, and of course, a lot of self-esteem!