Here are a few tips to get in the right mindset to start good habits this summer:

Exercise 

Everyone knows that exercise is good for them but not nearly enough people do it daily. Why is this? Speaking as a college girl, the primary reason I am not hitting the gym every day is time. When there are deadlines for projects and an overload of homework, the gym becomes the last thing on my mind. With the summer coming up, the excuses for not hitting the gym should hopefully be minimal and easy to integrate into your everyday routine. 

Here is what I have found to be effective in getting myself off the couch and to the gym. 

Don’t Make the Gym a Burden

The mind is a very powerful thing. If you continue to connect the gym to a hassle and something you hate going to then your brain will continue to correlate it to something you hate. Start to change your mindset on the gym by thinking positively when you go. I like to think of it as a time to reflect on my day and listen to songs I like. 

Find a Gym Buddy 

There is nothing worse than letting someone down. Make it a routine to go with someone, it could be your friend, significant other, or even your mom. Find someone that keeps you grounded to a routine and would be disappointed in you if you bailed on them. This forms great habits and allows you time to bond with someone. 

Get a Gym Membership 

On a college budget, when I spend money it better be for something worth it. When you are contracted to pay a certain amount each month, it can become a big incentive to get in the gym. Get your money’s worth and have a good workout! 

Drink More Water 

I will be the first to admit that when it comes to water, I do not drink enough of it. But, nothing like the summer to change bad habits right? 

When the body does not take in enough water, the effects can be but are not limited to headaches, fatigue, and weight gain. There are exactly no benefits that come from not staying hydrated so here are some ways to drink more water. 

Buy a Good Water Bottle 

Buying a water bottle can help incentivize drinking more water. I like SimpleModern water bottles because they are stylish, affordable, and can fit in car cup holders. When someone likes the water bottle they have, they are more likely to carry it around where they go. 

Keep Water on the Nightstand 

Keeping water in areas commonly occupied can serve as a reminder to drink more water. I like to keep water on the nightstand because when I wake up in the morning it is the first thing I see and helps to start the day off right. 

Make a Reward System 

Like most college-aged students, coffee is a big addition for me. While it does help get me up and moving it is not as healthy as drinking a glass of water. To drink more water a fun rewards program to try is allowing a cup of coffee only after finishing a glass of water first. 

On average, humans should consume four to six cups of water a day. Following these tips should help to up your intake. 

Get organized 

Coming home to a dirty room is not a great feeling. A bedroom should be a sanctuary that separates the busyness of the outside world from entering into an individual’s private environment. Make it a point to keep the bedroom clean this summer by following these simple rules. 

Hang Clothing 

Avoid the urge to throw everything on the floor and take the time to hang items up. It only takes a few seconds and can save you the effort of having to clean up a clothing monster later on. 

Put Dishes in the Dishwasher 

The best way to prevent piles of dishes in the sink is to automatically put all used plates, bowls, and silverware in the dishwasher after they have been used. It keeps your sink clean and smelling good.  

Vacuum 

Every week, have a day designated for cleaning all the carpets. I like to do it on Sundays to start the week off right. In the motions of a full week, dirt and dust collect all over the floor and the only way to control it is to clean it. Pull out the vacuum, play a good song and make it fun. 

Pick Up a New Skill 

The best part about the summer is it gives time to enjoy simple pleasures rather than solely focusing on school work. This summer find something interesting and learn more about it! It could be anything, just something that will provide a new skill that has not already been acquired. 

Some ideas are: 

• Painting 
• Knitting 
• Writing 
• Photography 
• Cooking 

The list goes on. Incorporating new skills can help with stress management and can be an enjoyable way to pass time. 

All these tips sound great, but they will be a little harder to implement. For some help in making a new habit stick, listen to the experts. According to science, there is a five-step process in making a lifestyle change from an idea to action. 

1. Pick your goal 
2. Make a plan 
3. Repeat it 
4. Allow flexibility 
5. Get support

I hope this summer is the start of new habits and healthy living for all. Stay safe and stay cool.