Embracing the Summer Shift

As the school summer holidays approach, I often hear the same mixture of emotions from clients.

Excitement for family time.

A little anxiety about disrupted routines.

Questions about how they’ll fit in exercise, self-care, work, or simply a few moments to themselves.

The truth is that summer holidays bring change, and many of us naturally resist change. 

We like our routines because they create structure and certainty. When those routines disappear for six weeks, it can feel unsettling.

But what if we looked at this period differently?

Instead of viewing the summer as something to get through, perhaps we can see it as a season to experience.

The long mornings, spontaneous days out, later evenings, family adventures, and even the occasional chaos all become part of a chapter that won’t last forever.

For those of us with older children, we know how quickly these summers pass. 

One day we’re planning activities and picnics; before we know it, we’re waving them off to secondary school, university, or their next stage of independence.

Every season of life asks something different of us.

Summer may ask us to be more flexible.

To let go of perfection.

To accept that our exercise routine might look different for a few weeks.

To understand that well being isn’t about doing everything perfectly. 

It’s about adapting whilst still looking after ourselves.

Sometimes a 10-minute walk is enough.

Sometimes stretching while the children play is enough.

Sometimes sitting quietly with a cup of tea before the house wakes up is enough.

The small things matter.

And then September arrives.

The familiar routines begin to return. New school years start. New habits emerge. Fresh opportunities appear.

September often feels more like a new year than January. It’s a chance to reset, refocus and decide what you want the next chapter to look like.

So as we head into the summer holidays, my invitation is simple:

Be present.

Enjoy what this season offers.

Release the pressure to do it all.

Trust that routine will return when the time is right.

And remember, every chapter prepares us for the next one.

Wishing you a wonderful summer filled with moments worth remembering.

Sam ‘adjusting my diary’ Hobbs