Five things to get excited about this summer

Summer is around the corner, and pandemic restrictions are easing. This means that now is the time to start planning what you want to do with all those warm days and long nights. Here are five suggestions:

Plan a party

Covid-19 lockdowns meant that many of us missed out on celebrations we might otherwise have enjoyed. Birthday parties, graduations, major holidays, and even ceremonies like weddings and funerals had to take place virtually, if at all.

But, even though things are improving, it still makes sense to be cautious. Outdoor parties are a great way to do this. For many, a family gathering in the back garden is a perfect way to meet up while respecting each other’s boundaries and health concerns.

Increasingly, families mark occasions (and create oh-so-important content for social media) with fireworks. Used safely, rockets, mine fireworks, and Catherine Wheels can help make a happy occasion into a truly memorable one.

Travel

International travel is back on the agenda this year. Think about all the places you wanted to explore during the pandemic and start planning accordingly. Not only is it a fun project, but it’s good for you. A 2015 scientific study found that “anticipating a positive event is uniquely able to induce positive emotions”.

A word of caution though: it will help if you are flexible when looking at destinations. Demand for foreign travel is likely to be high, as many people want to get away after staying within the UK in recent years.

Try something new

Get out of your comfort zone by trying something new. It doesn’t have to be adventurous, or even heart-racing. Learning a new language, trying a new hobby, or going somewhere different all help create excitement, challenge, and growth. If possible, start small, with a low-cost and low-stakes activity. That way you can move on if it isn’t for you. For example, take advantage of free trials, borrow equipment rather than buying it, and commit as little time as possible so you can get a feel for something before committing.

Do things in person

The pandemic’s effects on social events included activities many of us took for granted. We missed out on things like concerts, shopping trips, and spending time with friends and colleagues. Now summer is coming we can get back out there. Outdoor events like concerts in the park, fireworks championships, and café lunches can be fun and safe ways to reconnect.

Give back

Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, connect with your community, and help others. And, like many of the things on this list, it’s good for you. Studies have shown that volunteering improves your mental health and wellbeing. Remarkably, this boost can be valued at £911 per year. A well-being boost that’s worth money? That’s what we need!

Summer is the perfect opportunity to get some excitement and fun in our lives. After everything we’ve been through in recent years, don’t we deserve it?