Ah, July. The sun is shining, the pools are full, and it feels like everyone is on vacation. Your inbox? Crickets. Your calendar? A little …too open. Let’s put the sizzle back into summer.
It is easy to let the summer lull pull you into autopilot. But instead of seeing this as a slow season, what if you saw it as an opportunity?
A chance to reconnect, recharge, and refocus. Because here’s the thing: Relationships, whether with friends, family, or even yourself, don’t take a summer break. And the strongest ones—the ones that lead to opportunities, collaborations, and success—are built in these in-between moments.
Reignite Old Sparks
You know those friends you mean to call, but somehow months slip by? Relationships work the same way. Life gets busy. We get distracted. But summer is the perfect time to check in—not because you need something, but just because you care.
- Send a light, friendly message: “Hey [Name], I was just thinking about you! How’s your summer going?” No agenda, no expectations; just a genuine moment of connection.
- Make it personal: Did they mention a big move, a job change, or a trip they were excited about? Ask about it! Remembering the little things builds real trust.
The strongest relationships aren’t built when you need something. They’re built when you show up, just because.
Make New Connections Without Making It Feel Like Networking
Summer is packed with social gatherings: BBQs, community events, happy hours, and casual meetups. These are golden opportunities to meet new people in a relaxed, authentic way.
The trick? Don’t treat it like networking.
- Lead with curiosity. Instead of the usual “What do you do?” try “What’s been the highlight of your summer so far?” or “Any fun plans coming up?” People love to talk about things that bring them joy, and that’s where real conversations start.
- Follow up the next day. “It was so fun chatting yesterday! Let’s grab coffee soon—I’d love to hear more about [something they mentioned].”
The best connections don’t come from forced conversations. They come from genuine moments of shared experience.
Invest in Yourself to Sizzle
When things are hectic, personal growth takes a backseat. But when life slows down, that is the perfect chance to focus on yourself.
- Read that book you have been meaning to dive into.
- Try something new, whether it is a skill, a hobby, or a fresh approach to an old challenge.
- Take a good look at where you are heading. Are you on track with your personal and professional goals?
Pick one area to focus on this summer. Maybe it’s learning to set better boundaries, getting more comfortable with vulnerability, or simply being more present in conversations.
The best investment you can make is in yourself. The stronger, more confident, and more fulfilled you are, the better you show up for the people in your life.
Set Yourself Up for a Strong Finish This Year
We tend to think of summer as halfway through the year. But the reality is that what you do now determines how you will finish.
- Think ahead. What’s something you really want to make happen before the year ends?
- Reach out to the people who can support you, whether that’s mentors, friends, or family.
- Make a plan. Not one based on what you should do, but one that actually excites you.
Think of summer as your personal sizzle reset button. The more intentional you are now, the less you’ll feel like you’re scrambling when things pick up again.
Take a Real Break
If you are waiting for someone to give you permission to rest, here it is.
- Unplug for a day, a weekend, or even just an afternoon.
- Spend time with people who fill you up instead of draining you.
- Do something just because it makes you happy.
Let the people in your life know you’re taking time to recharge—and then actually stick to it. You’ll come back clearer, calmer, and more present. People respect those who set boundaries. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential.
Final Thought: Keep Your Sizzle Where It Matters
Summer does not have to be a time of waiting. It can be a time of strengthening, growing, and setting yourself up for something amazing.
So take a deep breath, focus on the connections that matter, and make this season count, not just for your career, but for you.
And do not forget the sunscreen.