Summer is gearing up and that means lazy afternoons on the patio or by the pool, BBQs, hiking adventures, and the will to make it through the work day when you’d rather be outside. Anytime weather brings a new season, I always take the time to think about what this season will bring and be for me. I desire change in my life like the change in warmer temperatures, the smell of flowers in the air, and the grabbing of the old flip flops from the back of the closet to wear.

This summer I have a new mantra and that is  “Choose Healthy.” I think these words mean so many different things to me and can create some really great change in this season of my life. I want to choose healthy in the foods that I eat. Making sure that I’m putting things into my body that will fuel it to keep going, not slow it down. I can choose healthy in what I do with my spare time, do I go for a hike or sit on my couch and watch tv?

In looking at my finances, I can choose healthy by asking myself do I really need this before purchasing an item. If it’s a necessity, then yes purchase. However, if it’s something that can wait taking the time to wait to see if you really need it before purchasing it, then it is now a necessity. Sometimes just waiting on purchase, causes you to forget you even wanted to purchase that item. Instant savings by waiting. If you are still thinking about it, then reconsider. Another way to choose healthy financially right now for me is cooking meals instead of eating out all the time. That has a bonus effect because not only am I most likely eating better, but I’m saving money at the same time. (Apartment Therapy – Eat at Home: Tips, Projects and No-Fail Strategies to Save Money and Avoid Eating Out)

Relationships, are another area that I can choose wisely and create healthy bonds in who I spend my time with, who matters to me and who I matter to, and are they a positive influence. I think there are times when you can surround yourself with people who suck the life and energy out of you because of their negativity or lack of focus and direction. Instead, surround yourself with people who push you to be a better version of yourself, constantly challenge you to be healthy, and have a positive attitude. (Put the phone down, and talk to others.)

I think in my spiritual life, I definitely have opportunities to choose healthy by trusting in God and not myself, by developing my relationship more with the one who created me, and seeking out purpose in the work that I do and how it is connected to impacting others.

I have lots of opportunities to choose every day what I put in to my body, how I treat my body, who I spend time with, what my attitude is, how I love myself, and how I glorify God with my life.

With summer here, I want to make the most of this season before the cold rolls in and the leaves start to change.