Do you tend to feel unfocused and distracted in the summer? Or frustrated and somewhat “checked out” of work? If so, you are not alone and this is quite common. The carefree spirit of the season can clash with the demands of work. There's a disconnect between the excitement outside and the need to concentrate at the office.

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It’s no wonder that we are all itching to get outside, and there are physiological reasons for this. Sun exposure facilitates the production of vitamin D in the skin, which is essential for bone health, immune function, and inflammation reduction. It also helps regulate circadian rhythms and boosts serotonin levels, improving mood and emotional well-being - it makes us feel good almost instantly! So in short, staying in your office is hard because you are working against what your brain and body want to do.

Here are some potential contributing factors that can make this unfocused feeling even harder:

• The Impact Of Covid: many are still experiencing lingering impacts of Covid. People are trying to make the most of life and reclaim the time they feel they’ve lost. 
• Seasonal Stimulation: while the city is always stimulating, the energy tends to amp up in the summer. We are surrounded by constant messaging - the buzz of social plans, events, and outdoor activities.
• Bye, routine!: with longer days and more travel, people’s sense of routine can get thrown off. We tend to feel more grounded and make healthier choices when we are in our routines or a general rhythm of healthy habits. 
• The Dopamine Fix: in the age of instant gratification, we have learned to seek “dopamine hits” - the body’s “feel good” hormone. In the summer, we are surrounded by opportunities that may provide a rush of feeling good.
• FOMO & Pressure To Have A “Fun” Summer: there are factors that can make some more susceptible than others (i.e. age, level of fulfillment, self-esteem). FOMO can be particularly strong in the summer, as social media feeds overflow with highlight reels.

So, what can you do to regulate this feeling?

• Embrace the Shift: acknowledge that your priorities may shift during the summer. Remain curious about what your current needs are and allow yourself to edit your routine as needed.  
• Remain Mindful: what thoughts are you being distracted by and how are you responding to these thoughts? Can you accept the presence of this distracted feeling? What may be emotionally driving you to seek distraction? Perhaps there is something that’s difficult to sit with underneath the surface (i.e. feeling unfulfilled in career). 
• Prioritize Health: the basics are so important and often overlooked - optimize nutrition, prioritize sleep, stay hydrated, move your body, manage stress, limit caffeine/sugar, take regular breaks from work, spend time with friends/family and nourish those relationships, and limit screen time.
• Schedule Your Fun: be intentional and block out time for social connection and pleasure so that you can feel fulfilled. Scheduling your fun also means being able to say no sometimes, allowing you to take care of yourself and show up better for both your social engagements and work. 
• Optimize Your Work Environment: make your workspace feel summery! Open windows for fresh air, bring in plants, or even work outside if possible. Creating an environment conducive to productivity is super important - ensure your space is organized, clutter free, has good lighting, a comfy chair - it all makes a difference! 
• Embrace the Outdoors: take advantage of the summer! Schedule frequent breaks, work outdoors when possible, and start and end your day with a walk in nature - spending 10-20 minutes outside in the mornings and evenings. 

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Remember, it's okay to feel less focused during the summer. This season brings a natural shift in priorities, as the warm weather and longer days beckon us to relax and enjoy life a bit more. By acknowledging this shift and being gentle with yourself, you can find a balance that allows you to take advantage of the season's opportunities while still fulfilling your obligations. 

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Implementing small changes, like adjusting your schedule to include more outdoor activities, setting realistic goals, and practicing mindfulness, can help you stay on track. Embrace the slower pace of summer as a time to recharge, connect with loved ones, and pursue hobbies that bring you joy. By doing so, you'll return to your regular routine feeling refreshed and ready to tackle new challenges with renewed energy and enthusiasm. 

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So, take a deep breath, savor the moments, and remember that it's perfectly normal to feel a bit checked out during this time of year. With a mindful approach, you can make the most of the summer months and create lasting memories while still staying productive.