[This post is sponsored by Walmart. All opinions + suggestions are our own]

Summer break. It’s definitely a period of time that I took for granted as a youth, and of course, I lived it up and have no regrets. It’s just that unless you are able to take three months off starting in July, it can seem like such a thing isn’t possible for you. But summer break as an adult is a thing! It just takes a little bit of reframing. Summer break as an adult can be what you make it and what you need. Some of it may have to be scheduled, but that doesn’t make it any less special. In fact, it makes the time deliberate and intentional, and most of all, a time for fun.

Create a Weekly Ritual

Is there a new habit you’ve been wanting to kickstart? Summer may be your time to get it going! Even as a youth, a summer book club was always a motivator for me to put my nose in a story and take my time easing into it. Perhaps you’ve been wanting to get back into reading and start with a chapter a week. Maybe you’re changing your workout routine up for the season. Perhaps you’re adding a friend date/catch-up to the calendar. Whatever it is, add it to the calendar so it’s something to look forward to. Make sure it’s something that delights you.

Schedule Summer Fridays

When I worked in advertising, employees of my agency were able to select four Fridays between Memorial Day and Labor Day to take off that didn’t count again our standard PTO. I guess this was their way to ensure that you did in fact have a little bit of a summer break as an adult. Honey, I love me a Summer Friday and I implement this as much as I can in my own business. Maybe Friday is also the day that you are all-in on your new ritual. Hey, the habit stacking can be quite effective (and if you can’t tell, I am all over Atomic Habits from that reference – grab the book). If it’s not every Friday, maybe it’s a Friday per month. Maybe it’s a half-day. Maybe it’s after 3 pm. You make the call for what works with your schedule and lifestyle, but do add “Summer Friday” to your calendar like you would any other vacation. Make the time for yourself.

Change Up Your Space

If you have to be home or in your office more this summer, let’s change up the physical space a bit. Whether that is adding in a couple of fun plants, or switching around furniture, a simple update can bring a big shift in energy. [Working from home? Here are my best hacks for productivity]

Make Time for Summer Fun and Play

Seriously. We deserve it! I’ve been guilty of this in the past, but summer play can’t be reserved just for big groups and planned trips. Summer break as an adult should be as it was when we were kids: Simple. Grab a cooler packed with your favorite beverages and snacks, pack your favorite book, and call up a few friends to have a day of lounging in the sun. If your friends can’t join you, enjoy the adult recess for what it is and squeeze in a self-care moment.

On a recent trip to Walmart, I was able to pick up everything I needed for a chill pool day – even a cute one-piece swimsuit. I was surprised but relieved to be able to find everything I needed under one roof.

And if you’re wondering if you should, get the fun floatie.

Everything You Need for Summer Break as an Adult

I was so relieved that Walmart had everything I needed for a chill pool day. I even grabbed some sparkling water, wine onesies, and cut fruit + veggies to keep the hunger and thirst away. Here are some of my essentials to make your summer break for adults extra fun!

1. JBL Portable Bluetooth Speaker. 2. Play Day Multicolored Beach Ball. 3. Igloo 28-qt Hard Sided Ice Chest Cooler. 4. Play Day Inflatable Holographic Seashell Pool Float. 5. Time and Tru Women’s Watercolor Tropical Leaves Swimsuit. 6. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen. 7. Thermacell Mosquito Repeller. 8. Floating Drink Refreshment Table. 9. Mainstays 26 oz. Color Changing Tumbler. 10. Play Day Leaf Pool Float.

Dress the Part

Snag the Supplies

It’s easy to walk in and navigate the store, but if you are a get-out-and-go kind of person, you can order online for pickup or even delivery. Plus, Walmart.com has practically anything you’re searching for these days so make it a point to check availability there first.

I’d love to know how you’re going to enjoy your summer break as an adult! Please share with me in the comments.