A New Summer Lifestyle
In years past, once we wrapped our spring season, I'd press pause for the summer, a chance to recharge, spend time with my family, and soak in the slower pace. But this year, Chicago has been buzzing with incredible stories, inspiring people, and unforgettable moments. Between celebrity interviews, community events, and stories too meaningful to pass up, I simply couldn't step away completely. Instead of a full summer hiatus, I've found myself embracing something new: an intermittent hiatus, making space to enjoy the season while still saying "yes" to the stories that deserve to be told.
What my family and I have discovered is that slowing down doesn't mean giving up momentum. In fact, it's helped our entire family become more intentional with our time. Instead of trying to fill every hour, we've focused on making the hours we have together count. We've embraced spontaneous adventures, lingered over dinner a little longer, and found joy in the everyday moments that are so easy to overlook when life feels rushed.
Ironically, taking a step back has also made us more productive. By creating healthy boundaries around our schedules, David and I have found ourselves approaching our work with greater focus and purpose instead of simply staying busy. It has been a reminder that productivity isn't measured by how much we accomplish in a day; it's measured by whether we're investing our time in what matters most.
I think so many of us feel pressure to choose between working hard and slowing down, as if those two things can't coexist. This season has reminded me they absolutely can. Balance isn't about doing less; it's about living with intention. Sometimes the best way to move forward is to pause long enough to appreciate where you are.
As summer continues, I hope that you'll permit yourself to do the same. Enjoy the vacation without worrying about your inbox. Make time for the people you love. Tackle the project you've been putting off, but don't forget to savor the moments in between.
Summer has a way of remindin
g us that life isn't meant to be lived at full speed all the time. Sometimes the greatest gift we can give ourselves is the freedom to slow down just enough to recognize what's been there all along.
That's what this intermittent hiatus has become for David and me. It isn't about stepping away from life or our work—it's about creating space for both to flourish. And in doing so, we've discovered that some of the most meaningful moments happen when you intentionally leave room for them.
