It’s August, and before you know it, you’ll be back to your usual work routine and day-to-day activities in September. Trying to find a balance between work productivity and leisure time in the final stages of summer can be challenging, especially when trying to make the most of the warm weather before the colder months begin.

Instead of just working away, have a game plan. Decide what you want the next few weeks to look like before it’s too late. Set clear, achievable goals for your workday and get that much-needed vacation without pushing yourself too hard.

Maintain a balance between work and leisure

Start your day early and eat the frog first. This means doing the most boring and annoying tasks first so you can get them off your plate without having to be anxious and stressed about those projects all day.

With most of your colleagues and clients on vacation or using up their paid vacation, the hectic pace of work is relaxed significantly, giving you the freedom to take regular breaks.

Take a quick afternoon dip in the pool. Take a nap on the porch. Go to the gym to work out. Play pickleball, ride a bike, or go for a hike. Balancing work and play will help you recharge and avoid burnout.

Set a plan

You need to set clear boundaries between work and play. You should make sure that the workload of your colleagues who are out of the office doesn’t end up entirely on your desk. If that happens, the rest of the summer will fly by and you won’t have enjoyed it. Worse still, you’ll feel used and physically exhausted when the September grind starts.

Try using a planner to prioritize tasks and set specific time limits for activities. Project management software and tools can also help you organize tasks and deadlines to avoid feelings of being overwhelmed.

Adding personal activities and hobbies to your calendar will help ensure you schedule time for yourself and relaxation. This will not only help maintain your mental health, but will also boost your motivation and creativity when you return to work.

By consciously managing your time and energy, you can achieve a fulfilling balance that allows you to be productive while still enjoying your free time.

Don’t try to deceive your boss

Some workers take advantage of daylight saving time. When workloads and stress levels in the office decrease, employees can easily indulge in the latest trend in pretending to work: a quiet vacation.

In a recent Harris Poll, nearly 40% of millennial workers said they take time off without formally telling their manager.

Respondents admitted to using office workarounds, such as moving the computer mouse at regular intervals to appear active, and scheduling messages to be sent outside of normal business hours to give the impression that they are doing more than is necessary for their employer by working overtime.

Be honest instead of being sneaky. Talk to your manager. Let them know you’re taking time off. Be open and ask if it’s OK to take a few extra days off.

Present the request as a benefit for you and the company. With the extra free time, you will have more time to relax and spend time with your family and friends. Assure your manager that you will return relaxed, re-energized and motivated to get started right away.