If you’re anything like me, the concept of “taking things easy” is totally foreign. We’ve always got so much to do! Between work and—insert your gazillion other responsibilities here: kids, spouses/partners, parents, church, advanced education—it seems like we’re constantly on the go. Even after we make it through the work week, the sheer miscellaneous flotsam and jetsam of a responsible adult life (think home maintenance, repairs and—if we’re lucky—improvements; trips to the grocery, library, dry cleaners; gym time—again, if we’re lucky) almost always keeps us in constant motion all weekend.

Maybe the goal shouldn’t be taking things “easy” so much as using and enjoying our time wisely. For example, I’m always excited when I can find some free time to do something productive that I also really happen to enjoy. Volunteering with a local animal rescue group gives me the opportunity to work with dogs while making a beneficial impact on their lives, as well as the lucky folks who eventually adopt them. Hobbies can be very productive, in that they provide a wonderful way for us to actually relax—something we all need but don’t generally make time to focus on.

Our cover photo this month represents a great example of people productively pursuing an activity they enjoy. The DONG Energy Solar Challenge is a solar boat race, and teams from all over the world enter. “The SCIGRIP Solar Boat Team has competed in the DONG Energy Solar Challenge since its creation in 2005. The crew consists of a dedicated group of engineers with a vast knowledge of the marine industry, composites technology and the application of specialist adhesive products. This is combined with a passion for boats and environmental sustainability.” Read the full story in this issue.

 What productive and enjoyable activities do you make time for? How do you manage to fit them into your schedule? Please share your tips with me at suttons@bnpmedia.com, or feel free to give me a call at (248) 786-1704.