Here in Minnesota, summer is glorious, especially when considered in context with that other season that we’re famous for…

Are you making the most of these precious sun-kissed, long, lazy summer days? If not, what are you waiting for? We all work incredibly long hours in these “ 7X24 always plugged in/always available “ days. Have you used your vacation time this year? Have you even scheduled a vacation day this year? Something to think about, isn’t it?

My summers are a time of relaxation and smelling the roses, and keeping the business wheels turning. I try to spend some time on the mountain bike, and with a golf club in my hands. I try to eat more fruits and vegetables since they taste so GOOD when they’re fresh from the local gardens. For me, summer is a time of reading, walking, listening to the birds, and enjoying the sound of the breeze blowing through the trees. I also love summer for the incredible food on the table, with ripe cherries, rhubarb, peaches, blueberries, and fruits of every kind. Perhaps the finest aspect of summer for me is the chance to entertain friends and family on the deck and to engage in some experimental outdoor cuisine. I love marinading and grilling fish, chicken, turkey, bratwurst, and meats of just about any kind. Is there anything that says summer like the smell of freshly grilled food? I think not. When you add the possibility of chasing that grilled food down the gullet with a sip of great Chardonnay, or my favorite summertime rum libation, it is just marvelous!

So back to my question. Are you making the most of summer? This is the best time of the year for many of us because the weather is just so very fine and pleasant. Are you living your life with some healthy balance so that you can be present and engaged in summer and spend some time with friends and your beloved family? If you’re not currently making the most of summer, don’t fret, you still have 2 or 3 months to settle the score and get back in the game. Make plans to get out for a game of tennis, or take the canoe around the local lake for a great sundown or sunrise. Call a friend that you haven’t seen in awhile, and get them to play 18 holes of golf with you. Buy some tickets and get out to see a great concert this summer, especially if the performance is outdoors! Go to an art fair and marvel at the talent of the people in exhibit. Take a walk, take a bike ride, schedule a game of bocce with your kids, or with your parents, take your dog for a long walk and a game of fetch. In fact, if you see me and Izzy out walking, please honk and wave. Frankly, summer is fantastic! You don’t want to waste it, and you certainly don’t want to miss it! Make up your mind to be mindful of how fabulous summer is, and make enjoying it a priority! It doesn’t cost much, and it’s an incredible ROI. People will begin to ask you why you have that goofy smile on your face.

It’s still early, most of summer still lies just ahead, make up your mind to capture the moment, and live the rest of summer with a bit of balance. You’ll be glad you did.

Check out some of my other articles under “Ask the Coach” on Michael Beach Coaching & Consulting’s website (www.mihcaelbeachcoach.com) and if you read something you like, please comment.