Inspiration from around OM

Investing time in yourself is a great way to ensure a productive summer. By doing so, when you come into the new school year, you can come with a different mindset and habits.  There are many habits you can create or activities that you can do this summer to keep yourself happy and healthy. 

One of the things you can do is freshen up your look by having a mini glow-up. This can include making changes to your style, such as updating your wardrobe or trying out new accessories. Another option is to switch up your hairstyle or hair color to give yourself a new and refreshed appearance. A mini glow-up is a great way to boost your confidence and feel great about yourself this summer. 

If you’re looking to give your hair a makeover without going out of budget, using box dye can be a budget-friendly option. On the other hand, if you want to switch up your wardrobe, going to a thrift store can be a great way to find unique and affordable pieces to add to your closet. Shein is also always a great resource for affordable clothing or accessories. 

Another way to stay productive this summer is by finding a job which can be a wonderful way to keep yourself occupied. Also, being financially independent is awesome. Junior Christian Alfaro Alvarado said, “Finding a job is something productive you can do this summer because it can assist you in being self-sufficient and avoid relying on others for financial support.” 

Exercising regularly is another way to be productive because you can easily incorporate regular exercise into your routine. If you’re interested in staying active and engaging in fun physical activities, you may want to consider joining a sports team. Fortunately, if you happen to be a member of the Columbia Association, there are a plethora of exciting activities available for you. From swimming and tennis to yoga and cycling, there’s something for everyone. By mixing up your routine and trying out different activities throughout the week, you’ll be sure to stay engaged, motivated, and energized. 

Going for runs around your neighborhood can be beneficial for your mental and physical health. Running is a form of therapy that can help you develop a strong mentality and provide a sense of escape. When you run, you enter a world of your own and can focus on yourself without worrying about your surroundings. Our OM health teacher Mr. Looper recommends, “You should get into a routine, go on a walk or get some exercise. You should go to the pool and get some sleep.” 

During the summer, reading can be an excellent way to spend your time, as it offers numerous benefits. It not only helps you relax and unwind but also expands your knowledge and creativity. By involving yourself in a good book, you can explore new worlds, gain different perspectives, and learn new things that can inspire you. So, if you’re looking for a productive way to spend your summer days, reading is definitely worth considering. Senior Keyonc’e Coleman says, “During the summer I will spend some time reading books. I find reading to be a calming and therapeutic activity that allows me to relax. Not only that, but it also helps me reduce the amount of time I spend on my phone, which can sometimes be overwhelming.” 

Traveling can be an excellent way to make your summer more productive as it offers an opportunity to explore the world and experience diverse cultures, customs, and lifestyles. Visiting new places, trying new foods, and engaging in exciting new activities can expand your mentality and enrich your view on life. Moreover, traveling can also help you make new friends, learn new languages, and build lasting memories that you will cherish for years to come. Our OM teacher’s secretary, April Richie, says, “Summer is a wonderful season that presents an opportunity to go on a journey of self-discovery. Traveling to different places, meeting new people, and experiencing diverse cultures can help you learn more about yourself. Exploring new places, engaging in exciting activities, and trying out new things can show you your limits, boost your confidence. Whether you choose to travel solo, with friends, or with family, there is always something to learn and discover.”

Overall, these are some of the ways you can keep yourself active and enjoy your 2024 summer!