Earlier this year, I learned the term wintering, or the act of withdrawing to rest and recover during the colder months. Like hibernation, humans can winter by planning less and enjoying home more. Many people already do this because wow is that wind chill awful, but for those of us who need a reminder to slow down, wintering is a great way to become more introspective and gear up for the high activity levels of the warmer months. (Wintering can also refer to spending the snowy season in a second home in Florida, but not for this girl.)
In North Carolina, where I live, the wintering season has already thawed, but for me, its message remains. And as I spent Sunday mapping out my summer, I found myself wondering how I could better honor my energy levels amid what’s looking like a busy period.
Enter my midyear ins and outs, a roundup I’m calling my “summer bucket list” simply for the sake of keeping things concise. These yeses/nos are how I plan to keep my summering cool, calm, and balanced—just like the beginning of the year—while also enjoying the activeness that longer days ultimately inspire.
In: Intentionally creating a new daily routine that works with the warmer weather and my responsibilities.
Where I live, long dog walks in the summer happen very early in the morning. That means it’s early to bed, early to rise—and occasionally a late start for work if the day is going to be particularly steamy.
Out: Constant multitasking or overcommitting without focus.
The moment the weather gets warm, I become a “yes, and” girl, taking on too many tasks or social engagements at once because I simply want to do it all. This summer, my goal is to scale back in order to give different areas of my work and life the focus they deserve.
In: Keeping an eye on the time.
Speaking of overcommitting, I’m freeing up my schedule by being more aware of my time. Have I been working on this task for 45 minutes with no success? Maybe it’s time to move on. I can come back. If I leave that event early, does that mean I’ll get to bed at a better time? Maybe missing the last half hour isn’t a big deal.
Out: Relying on coffee for hydration.
Currently shaking as I type this.
In: Designating digital detox hours to reduce screen time.
It’s time to turn down the noise—and I don’t just mean the buzzing cicadas.
Out: Working in isolation.
As a remote worker, solo work leads me to distraction. I’m setting up more coworking hangouts and enjoying an iced strawberry matcha (and water! I meant that) at a local coffee shop as often as my budget allows.
In: Scheduling regular time when I’m not responsible for anyone or anything.
Employee, manager, dog mom, friend, daughter, volunteer. I have many titles that I enjoy. But one, Beth, gets top priority—and time to read, run, or rest daily without interruption.
Out: Sticking to routine work without growth or creativity.
If something’s broken, fix it, and stagnancy and lack of inspiration are signs of brokenness. I’m reassessing the energy suck of projects that have lost their sparkle by asking for more feedback and attending short workshops aligned with what I do.
In: Calling over messaging.
I want to warm up my connections without typing out novels. Walking meetings, virtual coffee chats, and catch-up calls are so in.
Out: Rushing things that I enjoy.
Productivity is not always the goal. Sometimes it’s joy or connection. I plan to spend the summer savoring the good—even if it means occasionally falling “behind” on my to-do list. I have time.
There are so many more I could share, but I’d rather hear yours. What are your ins and outs this summer, and how do you plan to achieve them?
