Surviving Summer: Coping with Unmet Expectations
As the days get longer and the weather starts heating up, many of us expect our mood and quality of life to improve drastically. Summer is often considered the season of fun, relaxation, and adventure. Especially for those of us living in rainy BC, we might wait all year until summer rolls around to plan those weekends away, camping trips, or even just take time off. So while summer is often heralded as the “funnest” season, many people find it can be a surprisingly difficult time. The pressure to enjoy every moment, the disruption of routines, and unmet expectations can lead to stress and disappointment. Read below to explore why summer can be challenging and learn practical strategies to cope with unmet expectations and make the most of the season.
The Myth of the Perfect Summer
Social media, advertisements, and even our own memories often paint a picture of summer as a perfect, carefree time. We're bombarded with images of beach vacations, barbecues, and outdoor adventures. This creates a high bar for what summer "should" be, leading many to feel like they're missing out or not doing enough if their reality doesn't match the ideal.
Why Summer Can Be Hard
Disrupted Routines:
Summer often means a break from the usual routines, especially for families with school-aged children. This disruption can lead to feelings of instability and stress.
Social Pressures:
The expectation to be constantly social and active can be overwhelming, particularly for introverts or those dealing with social anxiety.
Body Image Issues:
Summer attire and activities can trigger insecurities about body image, leading to discomfort and self-consciousness.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):
While often associated with winter, some people experience SAD during the summer months, leading to depression and anxiety.
Financial Stress:
Vacations, outings, and activities can be expensive, adding financial strain and pressure to spend beyond one's means.
Coping with Unmet Expectations
Set Realistic Expectations:
Accept that no summer will be perfect. Set realistic goals and be flexible with your plans. Focus on small, manageable activities that bring you joy rather than striving for a picture-perfect summer.
Maintain a Routine:
While summer routines will differ from the rest of the year, try to establish a new, flexible routine to create a sense of stability. This can include regular wake-up times, meals, and activities.
Practice Self-Compassion:
Be kind to yourself. Acknowledge that it's okay to have difficult days and that you don't need to meet any external standards of what summer should look like.
Limit Social Media:
Social media can amplify feelings of inadequacy and missing out. Limit your exposure and remind yourself that social media often portrays an unrealistic highlight reel of people's lives.
Engage in Self-Care:
Prioritize self-care activities that help you relax and recharge. This can include reading, meditating, exercising, or enjoying a hobby.
Stay Connected:
Maintain connections with friends and loved ones, but on your own terms. Arrange low-pressure meetups that you enjoy rather than feeling obligated to participate in every social event.
Seek Professional Help:
If summer blues become overwhelming, consider seeking support from a therapist. Professional guidance can help you navigate difficult emotions and develop effective coping strategies.
Embracing Imperfection
Ultimately, the key to surviving summer lies in embracing imperfection. Life rarely goes as planned, and summer is no exception. By letting go of unrealistic expectations and focusing on what truly matters to you, you can create a season that is fulfilling in its own unique way.
Conclusion
Summer doesn't have to be perfect to be enjoyable. By understanding why the season can be challenging and adopting practical coping strategies, you can navigate the summer months with more ease and less stress. Remember, it's okay if your summer doesn't look like a postcard—what matters is finding moments of joy and connection in the way that works best for you.
