End of summer checklist for queer women

   We still have over a month left of summer, but figuratively speaking, summer is rapidly approaching its end. Vacations were already taken, school is about to start, and fiscal responsibilities are about to begin. Perhaps seasonal feelings of anxiety and sadness are starting to kick in as you look forward towards Autumn, or perhaps you start to feel regret at missed opportunities you might have passed up during the last few months. Maybe you feel like you’ve had all the fun you’re going to have for the summer and that there’s no more room for the kind of adventure and carefree recreation you’ve been having.

But, LISTEN UP!
Don’t despair! Make these remaining weeks of summer the best part! Here’s how!

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finish what you started

   A lot of times we begin the summer with an overly-ambitious set of tasks and goals to complete, but by mid-season these objectives are all but abandoned or forgotten. End your summer on a strong note by sticking to the script, and finishing what you started! You’ll feel better for remaining consistent, and whatever you’re completing will hopefully bring you a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

Fit in the “Last One”

   Very similar to the aforementioned point is making sure that you get to fully enjoy all that summer has to offer. Indulge in the “last” summer beach trip, or “last” summer hike, “last” cookout, “last” pool party, etc. These are the experiences and moment that make summer so memorable and enjoyable, and since there’s still time to enjoy them, make sure you go out and do so. ​

don't worry; be happy!

   Onset/End-of-season mood swings are a scientific reality for some people.The transition of seasons can trigger anxiety, blues, depression, and despair for certain individuals, and so if you feel yourself slipping into a generalized place of sadness or darkness, make an appointment with a medical professional right away. On the other hand, if you experience the mild afflictions that affect most of us, just concentrate on the things and/or people  that make you happy, and surround yourself with that. For example, if being outside has a calming effect on you, grounding yourself barefoot in grass or sand can be the uplifting experience to help you cleanse away the negativity.

Prepare now, save yourself that headache!

   “All things are ready, if our mind be so.”- William Shakespeare
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   The end of summer is a perfect time to look forward and to make preparations for the months to come. After the summer comes the close of the entire year, and so making plans in the form of budgeting, vision boarding, appointment making, goal setting keeps you on pace to close out your year on your terms!

Maintain Relationships with your inner circle

Summer is a time where you make new friends and create new memories. It can be fun and exciting to create new bonds, but staying tight with your core group of friends is one of the fundamental building blocks of what people need to be happy.

  Your BFFS can keep you positive, sensible, and properly supported through whatever the summer throws at you. Besides, a femmes’ or boi’s getaway sounds like a ton of fun!
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  If you’re attached, summer is a great time to re-ignite the romance. Although the wintry time of Christmas and Valentine’s day are usually the designated  lovers’ season, the end of the summer is a strategic time to do something with that special someone. After your friends getaway, after the family reunions, and before obligations begin to build up at home and at work, you can plan something sentimental with your partner (even if it’s just a dinner date or a walk on the beach). The point is that it’s the thought that counts, and to make sure that some of your good vibes involve your tribe.

Don't let it linger

   Listen to the Cranberries (RIP Delores O'Riordan)! Don’t let unresolved issues, problems, and disagreements roll into the next season. If there’s something on your mind that’s not sitting well, use the next few weeks to put it to rest. Unsettled problems have a tendency to fester and affect the subconscious, so the healthy thing to do is to address them, with yourself or with the other affected party. The end of a season should be about clearing space to mentally and physically prepare yourself for a positive and stress-free outlook on the future. Forgive others, and more importantly, forgive yourself.

Self-Evaluate (mentally) physically ​

   Continuing on the resolution of emotional and mental issues and problems that may have taken its toll during the summer season, it’s essential to also evaluate your physical state. Setting appointments with your primary care physician for check-ups is a good way to ensure your well-being. Women over 40 should have annual mammograms, so if you haven’t been to your doctor in a while, the end of summer is a great time to take your personal health into your hands. When it comes to health and illness it’s ALWAYS better to be safe than sorry!

in conclusion

   The days are getting shorter, but the thrill of summertime doesn't have to fade away like the sunlight. Continue to find ways to enjoy yourself and the company of others, and keep on manifesting peace and happiness into your life. Keep the spirit of summer alive within you, and worst case scenario, remember that Halloween gets closer every day! 

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