Does anyone else have a love/hate relationship with summer? Don’t get me wrong, I adore that it stays light outside until 8 p.m. and that there are so many fun outdoor activities to do. But sometimes I wish that summer wasn’t so busy. When I think about summer, I always imagine the freedom to have peaceful tanning sessions, read in the yard, and grab dinner on restaurant patios under twinkle lights. But then May hits, and suddenly my calendar is full of various birthday parties, family gatherings, and community events that seem way too fun to miss out on. Free weekends? My summers have never heard of them. Then August rolls around, and I’m not prepared for the busyness of the fall season because I’m burnt out from the fun I’ve had all summer. And then the same thing happens from fall to winter. And winter to spring.
The cycle HAS to stop! So I’ve come up with a list of ideas to help you slow down, choose what really matters, and be fully present in your life so that you’re not thinking about next week’s neighborhood BBQ while trying to enjoy cake at your nephew’s birthday party.
1. Schedule Free Time
It might sound conflicting to schedule free time, but believe me, this is the key to your mental sanity in busy seasons. Find one or two days a month and block them out on your calendar. Don’t let yourself add anything else to those days; treat them as fully booked. And when the free day comes? Do whatever you want. It’s your day.
2. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity
Say it with me: Just because I’m invited doesn’t mean I have to show up. Saying yes to every invitation inevitably leads to burnout. When you get an invite, take a few days before responding to make sure it’s something you actually want to attend. No more events where you’re constantly checking the time to see if it’s socially acceptable to leave.
3. Reflect and Reset
After social events, take a moment to assess what felt nourishing versus draining. Use these insights to guide your future plans. You could even start a journal to keep track of your energy levels after events.
4. Set Boundaries
Communicate your limits kindly. You can suggest shorter meet-ups or let hosts know you may need to leave early.
Slowing down doesn’t always mean you’re missing out. It just means that you’ve taken the time to assess what you need and have created the space to truly enjoy the moments that matter most.
