It’s almost summer, and most people are taking a break from work and heading off on holiday. I’m not one of those people this year. I’ll be working all summer, but I don’t really mind because the overall vibe is much more relaxed. I’ll probably still have plenty of time to unwind and do some fun things.

After all, it’s summer! Even though I have to work, I still want to make the most of the season and enjoy myself. That’s why I decided to create my Summer Bucket List for 2026. It’s a list of fun activities, small goals, and experiences I want to enjoy over the next few months. Just because I’m not going on holiday doesn’t mean I can’t have an amazing summer.

My Summer Bucket List

1. Thrift Shopping
   One thing I always love to do is visit thrift stores. Most of the time, you won’t find anything special, but every now and then, you come across an amazing find, and that’s what makes thrifting so much fun. Usually, I visit the same thrift stores over and over again, but lately I’ve been thinking about taking a long bike ride into the city and exploring some different ones. I have a feeling that the thrift stores in the city will be much more interesting than the small-town shops I’m used to.
   
   I’m currently looking for a few specific clothing items, but as always, I can’t resist checking out the book, CD, and DVD sections. You never know what hidden gems you might find.
   
2. Reading
   I’m reducing my screen time, and I definitely don’t want to spend my summer glued to my phone. That’s why I’ve made a long list of books I want to read over the next few months. I’ve added a mix of romance, dark romance, and thrillers, so I can always pick a book that fits my current mood.
   
   Reading is one of my favorite hobbies because it has genuinely changed my life. It helps me slow down, relax, and escape from the constant distractions of everyday life. I also notice a huge difference in my sleep when I read before bed instead of scrolling on my phone. I fall asleep more easily, sleep better, and wake up feeling much more refreshed. For me, there’s no better way to spend a quiet summer evening than with a good book.
   
3. Walk
   Of course, I don’t want to spend all my time indoors. I also want to enjoy the (hopefully) warm and sunny weather. I love taking walks around the neighborhood and seeing what everyone else is up to. There’s something relaxing about strolling through the streets and simply observing everyday life.
   
   I’m also lucky to live close to nature, so I can easily go for a longer walk whenever I feel like it. Whether it’s through the countryside, a park, or a quiet trail, being outside always helps me clear my mind and recharge.
   
   And, of course, walking is the best way to meet the neighborhood cats. You never know which furry friend you’ll run into along the way, and honestly, that’s one of my favorite parts of going for a walk.
   
4. Build a Lego Set
   I have never built a LEGO set before, but I really want to give it a try. Hopefully, I won’t get addicted, because LEGO is definitely not the cheapest hobby. Still, I absolutely love the Stitch and Angel LEGO sets. Those building sets are very high on my wishlist.
   
   I think LEGO is the perfect hobby for rainy days. It seems like a fun and relaxing way to spend an afternoon, especially when the weather isn’t great and you feel like staying indoors. Plus, there’s something satisfying about creating something piece by piece and seeing it come together in the end.
   
5. Coloring
   For my birthday in May, I got a lot of coloring books because I specifically asked for them. I love being able to sit outside in the shade and just color for a few hours. It’s such a simple, relaxing activity that helps me slow down and enjoy a quiet moment.
   
6. Write
   I also want to write more. I really love writing, whether it’s for my blog or for creating fictional stories. I definitely want to write more fiction, because it has been on my to-do list for a long time, and I have so many story ideas.
   It’s time to actually start putting them into words and maybe, eventually, publish them somewhere if I feel they are good enough.
   
7. Diy/Crafting
   I also want to be more creative again. The other day, I realized that I’m barely creative anymore. I want to create more and consume less. Creating a bullet journal sounds fun, and I’ve also thought about trying knitting. I’m not sure which creative activity I’m going to pick yet. Maybe I’ll even paint a wall a different color. Who knows!

Photo by Perfecto Capucine on Unsplash

The post My Summer Bucket List | 2026 first appeared on Bettie Toon.

<p>The post My Summer Bucket List | 2026 first appeared on Bettie Toon.</p>

Hey there! Ever find yourself starting a task and then suddenly you’re 15 videos deep into a YouTube black hole about the history of the potato? Yeah, me too. In today’s world, staying focused can feel like trying to keep a cat in a box. It’s just not happening! But fear not, I’ve gathered some tips to help us all regain that laser focus.

Why Focus is So Elusive

First, let’s address the elephant in the room: distractions are everywhere. From the constant ping of notifications to the allure of binge-watching your favorite series, our attention is constantly being pulled in a million directions. Plus, let’s not forget the ever-present social media scroll. Focusing on one task for a prolonged period has become an art form.

6+ Tips to Improve Your Focus

1. Set Clear Goals: Start your day by outlining what you need to accomplish. Having a clear to-do list can give your brain a roadmap, making it easier to stay on track. Try breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
2. Eliminate Distractions: This one’s a no-brainer but often the hardest to execute. Put your phone on Do Not Disturb, close unnecessary tabs on your computer, and find a quiet workspace. If you’re easily distracted by noise, try noise-canceling headphones or listen to some focus-friendly music.
3. Take Breaks: The Pomodoro Technique is a game-changer. Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Repeat this cycle four times, and then take a longer break (15-30 minutes). It keeps your brain fresh and prevents burnout. On YouTube, you can find tons of Pomodoro videos.
4. Prioritize Tasks: Not all tasks are created equal. Tackle the most important or challenging ones first when your brain is fresh. This is often referred to as “eating the frog.” Once the big tasks are out of the way, the rest of your day feels more manageable.
5. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Your brain needs fuel to function. Drink plenty of water and snack on brain-boosting foods like nuts, berries, and dark chocolate. Avoid heavy, carb-laden meals that make you feel sluggish.
6. Get Enough Sleep: A tired brain is a distracted brain. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to ensure your mind is sharp and ready to tackle the day. So make sure your evening routine helps you to fall asleep faster and deeper. For me, reading before bed does the trick.
7. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation: Spending a few minutes each day practicing mindfulness or meditation can improve your concentration and reduce stress. There are plenty of apps out there like Headspace and Calm to get you started.
8. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity isn’t just good for your body; it’s great for your brain too. Regular exercise can boost your mood and improve your focus. Even a short walk can make a difference. So go outside for 30 minutes and relax.
9. Limit Multitasking: It might feel like you’re being productive, but multitasking often leads to more mistakes and less efficiency. Focus on one task at a time, and give it your full attention.
10. Create a Routine: Establishing a daily routine can help train your brain to focus. Set specific times for work, breaks, and relaxation. Consistency is key.

Conclusion

Staying focused is a skill that requires practice, especially in our distraction-filled world. By implementing these tips, you can train your brain to maintain concentration and get more done in less time. Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for you and sticking with it.

Got any focus-boosting tips of your own? Drop them in the comments below!

Stay focused, friends!

Photo by Seven Shooter on Unsplash

The post Focus: How to Sharpen Your Mind in a World Full of Distractions first appeared on Bettie Toon.

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