| Because let’s face it, these months deserve to be easy breezy! Connie Merritt Summer invites relaxing times with fun opportunities for escapes, spending more time outdoors, and longer days with thoughts of enjoying time for the things we really want to do. In reality, it is often the busiest time of the year because people host parties, schedule weddings, family reunions, plan trips, guest visits – often while managing multiple demands from schedule changes (like children being out of school or more activities as a result of longer days with extended sunlight). It can also be stressful - with too many things to do and places to go (or not enough). 1.) Your Summer Starts with YOU!
 Accept it’s your responsibility to plan and help reduce stress and manage the busyness -- you can manage it and have the summer time you want! (Even if you are getting multiple demands from different areas) By taking responsibility for your summer time -- it enables you to find the solutions far more quickly and you’re more likely to have the summer you want this year.
2.) Planning Ahead is Key With prior planning you’ll be better prepared. Get a calendar and make time now to connect with yourself and family members to capture thoughts in a list of what you and others want to do for the summer. When planning, be sure to review interests, activities, assignments, and commitments (workplace, home, family/friends and community). Set realistic goals for your summer. The pace is often slower and a good time to develop relationships – or take that much needed vacation or time off. If you have children at home for summer vacation, involve the whole family in the summer planning process. Ask for everyone’s input and suggestions. Discuss expectations with your kids in advance to avoid any misunderstandings. Decide together on some fun family activities and put them on the calendar.
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3.) Don’t Overschedule - Establish “No-Plan” Times Beware of over planning your days during summer. Keep an organized calendar that easily references all commitments and plans. On that same calendar, schedule in some "not-to-be scheduled time." And stick with it. Part of summer's fun is to have cookouts, unstructured reading, etc., and block regular times out on the calendar that are dedicated to family and friends only. If you have children at home, remember it is okay to let your kids be bored occasionally (they will find something to do). 4.) Let Go
And now, to make the longer summer days yours, you must agree to let go by trimming your to-do list. While there are no easy answers to these questions, ask and review: What can be let go of? (Including guilt!) 5.) Say No
No may be the most powerful word to use during the summer to relieve stress and busyness. Say it pleasantly and with a smile (at least in your heart and tone).
No, can save you time; enable you to focus on what’s important to you; and protect you from your own good-hearted... | 
