Designing a Slower Summer: Finding Rhythm in the Reset
It’s hard to believe I’m already writing about the summer slowdown again—it feels like I just shared last year’s thoughts on this seasonal shift. Yet here we are. We've settled into a familiar rhythm, and once again I’m leaning into a slower pace. I have found myself embracing a new creative routine with fresh ideas naturally weaving their way into my daily life.
As a work-from-home solopreneur, I genuinely love this time of year and the extra time I get with my children. This summer feels especially meaningful, as one of my kids is nearing a new stage of independence—soon, he won’t need me to drive him everywhere. So for now, I’m saying “yes” to all the drop-offs and pick-ups, savoring what feels like the end of an era. I joke that I work for him... but honestly, during this season, it’s kind of true.
With teenagers in the house, my mornings are often quiet—an unexpected gift. I use this time to knock out client projects, move forward on tasks for my business, and even squeeze in a couple of early morning runs each week to beat the heat. These slower starts have become sacred: time to recharge creatively, reset my mindset, and check things off the never-ending to-do list.
Afternoons are for shuttling kids, wrapping up loose ends, or just enjoying the slow pace of summer at home while they relax. This seasonal rhythm might not be perfect, but it’s exactly what we all need right now. I always find that this time of year re-energizes me for the busy fall season.
What I Focus On During the Summer Slowdown:
Creative Projects
I lean into whatever is sparking my creativity—whether it’s updating my own website, experimenting with design ideas, or diving into passion projects that have been in my brain for a while. This slower season gives me space to create without pressure. I’m especially excited about one project I’ve been developing—more on that soon.Business Maintenance & Admin
Without the usual morning rush of school drop-offs, I take advantage of quieter mornings to tackle those lingering business tasks—the ones that never feel urgent but are always waiting. From backend updates to workflow cleanups, this is my time to chip away at the never-ending to-do list and bring more clarity to my creative business routine.Self-Care & New Rhythms
Summer offers the rare gift of flexible time, and I try to use it well. With our schedule freed from school pick-ups and drop-offs, I’ve been working in some intentional self-care. After recovering from an injury, I’ve recently started running again—two early mornings a week, before the heat kicks in. These moments are just for me: movement, breath, and mental reset.Mid-Year Planning & Reflection
I use this mid-point in the year to reflect on where I am versus where I hoped to be. What’s working in my business? What needs to shift? It’s a great time to reassess goals, adjust strategies, and realign before the fall season picks up speed. Planning now helps me feel more grounded and intentional heading into the second half of the year.
Embracing the Slow Season with Purpose
The summer slowdown isn’t just a pause—it’s an opportunity to realign, refocus, and reconnect with the parts of life and business that often get overlooked in the rush. As a work-from-home creative and solopreneur, I’ve learned that slowing down doesn’t mean falling behind—it means making space for what really matters. Whether it's refining routines, revisiting passion projects, or simply enjoying a slower pace with my family, this season invites me to lead with intention.
I used to feel guilty during these quieter times, worrying that my business should always be growing or hustling nonstop. Over time, I’ve come to accept the natural ebb and flow of entrepreneurship and have learned to embrace and enjoy the slower moments as part of the journey. If you're in a similar season of reflection or resetting, I hope this encourages you to embrace it fully—guilt-free.
