Written by: Dr. Denise Moore Revel, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
As we usher in the excitement and warmth of summertime, it is the perfect time to focus on your personal development and career growth. This season is ripe with potential, making it the ideal time to invest in yourself and your career. Just as wellness is essential for your personal lives, it is equally crucial for your career. Here are five summer strategies for personal development, each aimed at boosting your wellness and productivity, ultimately enhancing your career growth. I also invite you to download a comprehensive stress assessment tool, designed to help you identify stress triggers and manage them more effectively.
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you." – Anne Lamott
This summer, harness the energy and positivity of the season to focus on your personal development and career growth. Prioritizing your wellness—it is not just good for you; it is good for your career. As the balmy days of summer unfold, opportunities for personal development and career advancement abound. The season’s natural energy and extended daylight hours create the perfect environment for growth and rejuvenation. By mindfully harnessing these elements, you can propel yourself forward both personally and professionally.
Let's delve into five unique strategies specifically tailored to the summer season, each designed to bolster your personal growth and catalyze your career success. These strategies aim to utilize the vibrant energy of the summer season to enrich your life, broadening your horizons, and supercharging your professional trajectory.
1. Embrace the outdoors
Research shows that being in nature can reduce stress, increase creativity, and improve mental well-being. Try taking your work outside occasionally. This could be as simple as answering emails on your porch or conducting meetings at a local park. If that is not possible, ensure to take regular outdoor breaks. A simple walk can rejuvenate your mind and increase your productivity.
2. Prioritize work-life balance
With summer boasting the longest days of the year, it is a perfect time to evaluate and enhance your work-life balance. After office hours, consider making use of the extra daylight by engaging in activities that fulfill you outside of work. This could involve biking, hiking, gardening, or even just reading a book on your patio. These activities not only contribute to your personal well-being but also indirectly enhance your career by helping you return to work refreshed and focused.
3. Set mid-year goals
June marks the midpoint of the year, providing an excellent opportunity for introspection and forward planning. Reflect on the goals you set at the start of the year and measure your progress. Based on your review, adjust your objectives, or set new ones for the rest of the year. Having clear, tangible goals can boost your drive and productivity, both key to career advancement.
4. Learn something new
Summertime, with its slower pace and vacation time, provides a great chance to learn something new. Consider enrolling in a summer course related to your field, attending workshops, or even learning a new language. Continuous learning not only enhances your skillset but also demonstrates your commitment to personal growth and adaptability, traits highly valued in the professional world.
5. Practice mindfulness
The relaxed pace of summer provides an opportune time to practice mindfulness. Mindfulness—being fully present and engaged in the current moment—can improve focus, reduce stress, and increase your overall sense of well-being. Begin with a few minutes each day, perhaps in the morning before starting work, and gradually increase this time. You can practice mindfulness in quiet reflection, during a walk out in nature, or even while enjoying a summer meal.
"Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability." – Sam Keen
While this quote might initially seem light-hearted, it carries a profound message. It suggests that the slower pace of summer, often associated with laziness, is actually a respectable and valuable time. This is a period when we can step back from our relentless routines, invest in our personal growth, and ultimately emerge stronger and more prepared for our career journeys. It is about finding the balance between rest and hustle and understanding that both are essential components of sustained success.
Remember, these strategies are not just for the summer. They can be adjusted and incorporated into your routine throughout the year. So, start today, let the summer be your launching pad to personal development and career growth. And do not forget to download the stress assessment tool here. By understanding and managing your stress, you are setting yourself up for success, both personally and professionally.
Dr. Denise Moore Revel, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Denise Moore Revel, PhD is a Thought Leader, Best-selling Author and Personal Development coach. She built a career and business in Speech-Language Therapy before realizing she had more to offer when it came to helping others use their voice. This revelation inspired her to become the CEO and founder of the Own Your Amazing Movement (OYA). OYA is a movement that speaks to women who are looking for the perfect balance of happiness and success in their lives. Dr. Denise helps her clients discover their personal power beyond their job title and accolades to achieve a fulfilling life beyond their wildest dreams.
