Ah, summer, the time of the year where students and teachers can relax, and just do nothing over the course of three months. But this freedom to do whatever you please comes with a price, and that’s boredom.

The monotony summer is something we’ve all felt before. The phrases “I’m bored” and “there’s nothing to do” become commonplace. The internet is a great distraction from the tedium, but one can only look at a screen for so long, and hanging out with friends only works if they’re in town. But there’s no need to worry, because I have some suggestions that could keep you going through the summer without any annoying intermissions.

One way to fight off lethargy could be summer sports. It doesn’t even have to be school related. Gather some friends and start a pickup game on the weekends. Look for info on the next Ultimate Frisbee game, and get involved. Alternatively, Cedar Rapids Parks and Recreation offers leagues for all kinds of sports at varying skill levels, and even beginners’ classes to help get you started. The most important element for this is to stay active, and stick with it.

If sports aren’t your thing, then why not try the arts? Get involved in pottery, painting, sewing, sculpting, writing, or anything else that might grab your interest. Are visual arts not cutting it for you? Then why not try the performance arts? Examples are acting, singing, dancing, and learning an instrument. Pick up a new challenge, or revitalize an old interest – it may keep you busy for the long days of summer.

The last thing I’d like to suggest is investing some time into getting a library card. The Cedar Rapids Public Library has locations all around town, making it easy to get to. Reading is a great escape for when you have some downtime to fill. New books are coming out constantly, and librarians will always help you find what you’re looking for. Check out that new bestseller, or discover the next one. Study up on recent interests, or get lost in an exotic world. Books can last as long as you need them to, making them a nice turn-to item during dry spells of inactivity.

Now that I’ve given you some suggestions, I’d like to remind you to just have fun. Three months may seem like a long time, but it will fly by before you know it. Make this the summer that, whatever the means, whoever you’re with, you live every second to the fullest.

Do you have any more ideas to fight summer boredom? Toss them in the comments below!