How to Build a Productive Summer Routine + Tips for Freelancers

I often find it hard to stay productive during the warm Summer months. It’s hot outside, I’m not always sleeping well, and I just want to be out in the sun.

However, there are a few easy ways to build a productive Summer routine. Every season is different. You need to think about how you work best – and lean into exactly what you need.

So, how can you make the most of the sun AND get all your work done? Let’s take a look at how to build a productive Summer routine that works for you!

How to build a productive Summer routine + my tips

Learn how to build a productive Summer routine, including all my tips and tricks for freelancers.

1. Get enough sleep

A good daytime routine starts with a good evening routine. Get a good night’s sleep to set yourself up for the day.

It can be so much harder to sleep during the warm Summer months – you’re hot, you’re uncomfortable, and you feel like you’re constantly tossing and turning.

Here are some tips to sleep better in Summer:

  • Invest in a fan for your bedroom
  • Go to bed at the same time everyday
  • Create a clean and fresh sleeping environment
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothes

Getting enough sleep will ensure you stay focused throughout the day. You can approach your work with a clear mind and avoid brain fog.

2. Keep your workspace cool

Next, you need to keep your workspace cool. If you want to create a productive routine, that starts with ensuring you’re happy and comfortable.

If you work in an office or business, you’ll likely have air conditioning to keep you cool. However, you’ll also need to wear Summer clothes that are work-appropriate but comfortable.

white desk with a cup of coffee, a keyboard, two cherries and pen at the right-hand side

If you work from home, make the most of fans and open all your windows to create a comfortable working environment.

I recommend changing out of your pajamas, even if it’s just into shorts and a t-shirt. This can help you create clear boundaries between work and rest – and it’ll help with tip #1 too!

3. Start early, finish early

Next, make sure to choose the right working hours for you. It’s typically a lot cooler in the morning, so try starting work a little earlier in the day.

I find it so hard to concentrate when I’m too hot. Starting around 8/8.30 pushes me to front-end my days – and get on top of my to-do list.

If you work flexible hours, you could even finish work early, too. Finishing work at 4pm, for example, allows you to get out in the sun for a few hours at the end of the day.

4. Work outside

I love working outside whenever I can! I don’t have much of a garden, so I usually take my laptop or notebook to a table outside my local café.

outdoor chairs and tables outside a café

If you’re a remote worker or freelancer, I recommend working out of the house on a regular basis. Being around other people will increase your focus and your productivity.

Whether you work outside or from your local coworking space, it never hurts to mix up your working environment during the hot Summer months.

5. Take breaks

You need to take regular breaks at any time of the year, but especially in the Summer. The heat can get to you if you don’t look after yourself properly.

Whether you’re in the office or you work from home, there are lots of little ways to make the most of your breaks:

  • Go for a walk – bonus points if it’s in nature!
  • Get a refreshing Summer drink
  • Sit in the garden
  • Go out for lunch with your colleagues

Treat yourself to cool Summer snacks like ice-cream or a fruit salad. You could also make light Summer meals like salad for lunch. This will leave you feeling refreshed – and you can avoid heating up your house by cooking a hot dinner.

Finding it hard to take regular breaks? Check out my ebook to add a bit of balance to your business + lots of resources, guides and templates.

6. Don’t forget about your weekends!

Finally, don’t forget about your weekends. Just as a good workday starts with a good sleep, a good work week starts with a good weekend.

The weekend is the perfect time to do all those fun Summer activities that you can’t do during the week. Pack your weekends full of fun or do absolutely nothing to rest your brain.

person leaning out of a car - back to camera - on a mountain road - on a road trip

Using your weekends properly will ensure you feel happy and refreshed for the new work week. You can come to Monday with a new focus – and avoid burnout in the process.

As well as weekends, don’t forget to use your annual leave over Summer. You can spend time with your family or go somewhere new. There’s nothing like a good stretch away from work to boost your productivity!

Do you change up your routine for Summer? What is your favourite way to make the most of the Summer months? Do you have any tips for freelancers or remote workers?

Tell me all your thoughts in the comments below 🙂

Happy reading x

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Author: Not-So-Modern Girl

I’m Eleanor, welcome to my little corner of the internet! I’m a freelance content writer and book lover from Yorkshire. On my blog, I write about life as a 20-something, including posts about freelance life, blogging, book reviews and more. I also write resources for bloggers and writers on my Gumroad account, including my ebook 'The Art of Blog Writing'.