Ain't No Cure

“There ain’t no cure for the summertime blues.”

I was probably a lot younger the first time I heard “Summertime Blues.” I’m sure I interpreted it differently then. Maybe something to the extent of feeling sad or down or, “blue” (?!) during the summer. I couldn’t understand – summer was great! No school and all the time in the world. I mean, I would hop on my bike, ride over to my best friend’s house, and then we’d spend the whole day at the neighborhood pool. I would get home around ten till dark. Why would anyone be blue?

As a grown-up, I hear it differently. It’s challenging to stay motivated or disciplined during the summer months. The kids are home from school, enjoying that free time that I took for granted oh so many years ago. It’d be much nicer to sit on the deck all day rather than going into the office. I could write on the deck …or go golfing? To the pool? Actually do some yard work?! I haven’t even mentioned the family trip!

The summertime blues hits us all differently. Maybe it’s a good time to slow down. Take that family trip and leave everything behind. Spend some time in the yard or on the golf course or in the pool.

Sorry, Eddie Cochran, the Who, Brian Seltzer, and Rush, there actually is a cure for the summertime blues – take care of yourself, slow down, and enjoy life again. Whatever it is that you feel “must be done” will be there for you tomorrow. Feeling the summertime blues is a sign it’s time to unwind so you can return later at your best self.

Here’s my challenge for you: beat the summertime blues! Find something unique to do. Leave the phone, the work, everything at home and enjoy the moment!