School is definitely out for the summer. I’ve been bombarded with friends’ quiz results and statuses reading “…is bored” every time I log onto Facebook. Students who only a few short weeks ago were overwhelmed with projects, papers, and finals are now complaining about being bored out of their minds. In an effort to help you avoid this boredom, here are a few things to try this summer:
Get a job. Not only will this help you have a little extra spending money, but it will give you a reason to get up and shower before noon. Plus, it will give you a great addition to your college applications and some great life experience. If you’re planning on doing a lot of traveling and don’t want to commit to a job for the entire summer, put the word out that you’re available for babysitting, yard work, or house sitting. If you’re contemplating getting your first job, start here.
Volunteer. If making money isn’t a priority for you this summer, or if you’re only working a few hours a week, consider volunteering. Talk to your youth pastor to see if he or she needs help during the summer. Talk to your pastor to see if there’s a family in your church who could use your help. Check with your school to see if there are any community volunteer organizations looking for help from students. Not only will it keep you from being bored, but you’ll also feel a great sense of accomplishment about the fact that you’ve done something to help another person.
Learn something new. Summer is a great time to learn something that you actually want to learn. Take piano, guitar, or voice lessons. Memorize some scripture verses or poetry. Go to the library and research Amelia Earhart or The Boston Tea Party. Read a book on the Holy Spirit or Neurology. Take up Bocce Ball or knitting. Ask your mom or Grandmother to teach you to cook. Not only will you learn something new, but you’ll sound smart and be more prepared for study in college. Learning doesn’t have to be boring!
Practice listening. This could also be a great time to make a new friend. Offer to meet the new girl at church for coffee. Find a mature Christian woman from your church and spend time listening to her talk about her relationship with God. Visit your grandparents and ask them to tell you all of their stories. You might be surprised by what you can learn about people, life, and God just by listening to people talk!
Help out. Clean your room, make your bed, or fold some laundry without being asked. If you’re not sure what needs to be done, ask your parents if there’s something you can do around the house to help out. It will help you fend off boredom, plus your parents will be impressed and probably more willing to say yes when you ask for something later on!
Whatever you do this summer, don’t just sit around thinking about how bored you are, but find something meaningful to do. Enjoy your summer and try something new!