4 tips for staying productive this summer

July 22, 2024 6:30 AM

A woman is floating in an orange tube on the lake while on her laptop.

Between record heat waves and burnout rates, some workers may feel even more unfocused this summer than usual. But you don't have to accept the summer slump without a fight.

Approximately 20% of workers think about quitting every day, according to a May report from MyPerfectResume. Given that productivity drops by an estimated 20% in the summer, according to Captivate Network, employee sentiment has likely only worsened over the last few months. While remote work, flexibility and summer Fridays can help employees strike a work-life balance and enjoy the summer, workers may still need to consider their routine.

"It's about habits and what we do daily," says Ksenia Hubska, data lead at EduBirdie, a digital resource for writers. "You need to analyze yourself and your body and figure out how to work and relax better."

For Hubska, rest and productivity go hand in hand — and the faster workers can complete their tasks, the more time they can spend with their families or on hobbies they typically reserve for the summer. Hubska shares four tips for fighting the summer slump and having a more fulfilling next few months.

Stay hydrated

While it sounds obvious, staying hydrated can be easier said than done. On average, people should consume around two liters of water, and possibly more during the summer. Given that dehydration is linked to headaches, fatigue, dizziness and muscle cramps, drinking enough water can mean improved focus and efficiency. Hubska suggests workers keep a reusable water bottle with them during the day, whether in the office or at home. She also recommends sneaking in fruit throughout the day, which can help with staying hydrated as well.

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Don’t stay at your desk

If you can work from home, Hubska suggests taking your work to the beach, a cafe or a park. A change in scenery can help people revitalize their focus and allow them to take advantage of the summer.

"Thanks to COVID, people realized you can work from anywhere if you're self-motivated," says Hubska. "So work in an environment that will be positive for you."

Go outside (unless there’s a heat advisory)

If the temperatures are endurable, Hubska advises workers to build outdoor activities into their weekly schedules. These can be as simple as walking to a coffee shop or biking around a nearby park.

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"It gives you a boost of energy and you don't feel guilty for missing out on the summer," says Hubska. "This creates more space mentally, which is necessary if you want to be productive."

Shake up your routine

Your summer routine doesn't necessarily need to match your routine for the rest of the year. Longer days may mean you want to wake up earlier or later (if possible). The heat may mean you switch your workouts to very early in the morning or after the sun sets. Hubska notes that some people may find they're productive in the first half of the day and vice versa. To whatever extent their job allows, Hubska encourages workers to reorganize their day according to their own body's needs.

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And hopefully a better routine means more time to enjoy the season.

"Don't forget to do things that bring you joy in the summer," says Hubska. "Because [joy] is also a source of energy."