Pandemic or not, the summer break is here! Compared to last year, the situation in Jordan and in the region has improved and has allowed for a return to normalcy (particularly for those who have received the vaccine). Some are helping in their family businesses, joining local tours, looking for summer jobs, or even traveling within the region for business or leisure purposes.
While we are all eager for the reopening of different sectors in the coming months, we can now enjoy some degree of freedom to go out of our homes. Here are some ideas to make the most of this summer break.
celebrate life.
Yes, being alive and still breathing (even with a face mask) is enough reason to celebrate! After all the exams, the challenge of online classes and the effort of submitting paper after paper - Mabrook, for finishing strong!
Celebrate wins! Whether big or small, it doesn't need to be grand. It can be as simple as spending quality time with our family and close friends, either at home or outdoors. Time to gather our wits back, take a break and appreciate the people who stood with us along the way. Enjoy the summer! Just don’t forget your face masks, observe social distancing and put on sunscreen lotion!
TAKE IT SLOW.
After staying at home and in our pajamas for more than a year, we are now eager to see change and for things to start moving - fast!
In times when anxiety is creeping in with the reality that we are still in the middle of the pandemic, we want change and we want it now! When we are concerned with daily needs and at the same time pressured to meet expectations, we tend to make hasty decisions that we may regret. The good news is, we are not alone! There are many people who are in the same situation and would understand the limitations and challenges it presents to all of us. It is ok to slowdown, take time to pause, embrace this season and plan things one at a time.
reflect on future plans.
To intentionally think of what is ahead, is to believe that there is still hope for the future. So even in the midst of health and economic challenges, to reflect on our future plans is to continue to hope for new things to happen and for lives to thrive, is still present. This summer break gives us an opportunity to sit back, whether personally or as a family, to reflect on our current situation and where we want to see ourselves in the coming months or years. The future is something that is beyond our control but to lose or not lose hope is for us to decide.
Take a step towards your goal.
It is said that a goal without a plan is just a wish. Striking the balance of reflecting on our goals and planning steps towards achieving them makes a lot of difference. We can always plan for the best but at the same time prepare for it. Inshallah, God will grant us the best in whatever we endeavor to do this summer!
Here are few practical tips for you:
Are you clueless on what career to pursue? Take online quizzes that will help you discover your strengths and interests. Observe what activities you enjoy the most or what subject you usually get the highest marks.
Do you want to be fluent in a foreign language? Start conversations with someone who speaks the language, start watching videos or start listening to songs in that language.
Do you want to pursue a specific career? Involve yourself in activities or take online courses that will help improve your competency. A writer? Start writing, An IT professional? Start troubleshooting your computer at home, A chef? Start cooking for your family and friends and get their honest feedback.
Looking for a job? Find positions related to your background and career that you want to pursue. It is ok to start in a small company, as long as it gives you the experience needed to build your career.
Unmotivated to do anything? Call and meet up with friends who have contagious passion to do what you wish you were doing. Their passion will surely rub on you.
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