PLAN

I know it may seem as if you have heard this saying a thousand times, but “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Planning this summer is critically essential. With the large amounts of free time you will have it is an absolute must to plan out your days wisely. Not to say that each one will go exactly as planned, but we are called to be responsible. We should not go off into the summer living aimlessly; with no agenda, no list of things that we have prioritized to do, and no goals in which we desire to reach. Planning this summer is going to be crucial so embrace planning, and keep track of your life.

Another thing with planning that is crucially essential is the setting of deadlines. One thing that I have realized is that the closer a deadline is for most people, the greater the sense of urgency they will have. Therefore, by setting and giving yourself deadlines, you will amp up your sense of urgency that will help you produce your desired results. Planning with the insertion of personally made deadlines is crucial.

KEEP YOUR ALARM CLOCK SET

Now, I know I am going to get a couple of people to skip this paragraph when the read the word “alarm clock”, but that’s okay. Yes, I do really mean ‘keep setting your alarm clock.’ Yes, I know how bad you may dislike your alarm clock, but trust me here. Continuing to allow your alarm clock to go off in the early hours of the morning will be “gold” for you in the long run. Developing this habit of consistently rising early to get your day started will greatly enhance your production, efficiency, and effectiveness in everyday life far beyond this summer.

KEEP STUDYING

The continuation of studying this summer may have sounded like another language to me a couple of summers ago when I was younger; however, it makes every bit of sense to me today. This summer, continue to study something; whether it is a class that you liked last semester, a class you are going to take next semester or quarter, your Bible, or simply something that you have been trying to get around to for forever. Continue your studying and keep you mind working. Our minds are similar to our body when we exercise it—we have to keep it in shape. Our cognitive skills play a critical role in our learning and loving of the Lord with our entire mind, so keep working out your brain this summer!

INVEST WELL

Lastly, I would like to suggest that this summer you invest and use your time prudently. Don’t waste this summer living as a lone-ranger, not being in community with other Christians. Christian community is so essential to our faith and our walking with the Lord as we need other Christians in our lives for support, encouragement, and honest edification. Also, this summer engage in a Bible reading plan, leisure activities and hobbies, passionate missionary work, and simply the act of loving God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and body. And whatever you do don’t forget to enjoy Jesus and love people.

Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.    – Ephesians 5:15-17