Summer. It comes in fast, loud, and full of sunshine—and with it, the beautiful chaos of inconsistent routines, spontaneous plans, and that ever-elusive balance between rest and responsibility.

As a mom and business owner, my summer days rarely look the same. One day we’re running errands in the morning and hitting the pool in the afternoon. The next, I’m in full “get stuff done” mode while my kids are off doing their own thing. There’s no steady rhythm like the school year provides. And yet, in the middle of it all, I’ve found a few things I can keep consistent—and those things make all the difference.

It starts with boundaries. Not the strict, scary kind—but the loving kind that gently protect my energy. I give myself permission to say “no,” even to things that sound fun, if they don’t align with what I need that day. I’ve learned that if I don’t carve out time for me, no one else will.

So, every day—no matter how unpredictable the schedule—I start with a few small rituals that ground me. I wake up early (not as early as the school year, but early enough). I pour my coffee. I sit in quiet. I open my journal and write down 10 things I’m grateful for. Then, I make a list of 1 to 3 things I want to accomplish that day. Just a few things. Things I know I can realistically check off. It gives me a sense of purpose without pressure.

That simple act—being proactive instead of reactive—helps me feel like I’m living my days instead of just survivingthem.

I also remind myself that joy isn’t something to earn. It’s something I’m allowed to feel, even in the middle of a messy house, unanswered emails, or sibling arguments echoing down the hallway. So I do things that light me up—whether anyone wants to join me or not. Sometimes it’s a solo walk, a spontaneous iced coffee run, or blasting music in the kitchen while I clean. Sometimes it’s planning something fun with friends or taking a quick trip with the kids. It doesn’t have to be big. It just has to be mine.

And when it comes to work, I’ve had to redefine what productivity looks like in the summer. Summer is technically my “slow season,” but it’s also a time when I’m prepping for fall. So I don’t take three full months off—but I do give myself grace. I plan for more fun than work, and I build my days in a way that supports both. Some weeks, that means taking three full days off. Other weeks, it might look like working just 3 hours a day. It’s about being flexible and intentional—not perfect.

So if you’re a mom, a business owner, or both—and you’re heading into summer with a mix of excitement and overwhelm—I hope this reminds you that taking care of you isn’t selfish. It’s essential. Your peace matters. Your joy matters. You don’t have to wait until the chaos settles to make time for yourself.

Start with small rituals. Start with what’s real. And know that showing up for yourself—consistently, even quietly—is a powerful way to live.