Warm Up to Summer!
“You are so much sunshine in every square inch.” — Walt Whitman
The sun is out and as businesses across the country are opening up, you’ll probably find that your wallet is too.
Here are five practical strategies to help you ease the summer spend, stay on track, and harness new opportunities for growth in your business all summer long.
1. Add fun into your budget
Whether you were able to save up a nice nest egg through this last year, or, you’re fine-tuning your expense chart, make sure to include a budget for having fun. That can look like a road trip to a nearby Bed and Breakfast, a ticket to your local botanical garden, or even a new bike for some outdoor exercise adventure. Summer is all about kicking back and relaxing, so be sure to prioritize an experience that will be sure to make memories to last the whole year round!
2. Take advantage of free/reduced price online learning
There are several online platforms that are still offering free remote workshops, seminars, and more. Many companies are reducing their rates for virtual learning, and there is no better time to cash in and take advantage of these offerings.
We have our eyes on Yale’s Financial Markets Course, or Harvard’s Financial Stewardship Webinar.
3. Plan ahead for fall/winter expenses
You know the saying — there is no better time than the present! Set some time aside this summer to review any upcoming 3rd and 4th quarter expenses. You can take advantage of the longer days to think about your goals for the 2nd half of the year, and set yourself up for success by planning your fall and holiday travel, gifting, and other expenses in advance.
4. Shop what you have
Take inventory of the things around you before hitting the stores for summer sales. When was the last time you cleaned out the garage? You may be surprised at what you find that can add to your summer of fun!
5. Stay involved in your network
While you are (hopefully) spending time with family and friends this summer, remember to check in with your networking organizations to keep up to date with the movers and shakers in your industry. Setting aside even an hour a week to attend a meeting, read a peer’s article, or set up a quick phone chat with a prospective lead can make a world of difference as the summer winds down and we head back into busy work days.
Alexandra Mendelson is a Luxury Travel/Lifestyle consultant and writer based in Los Angeles.