When most people think of summer, they picture sunshine, vacations, cookouts, lake days, fresh fruit, flip-flops, and longer evenings. Summer has a way of making us feel lighter, freer, and more alive.
But what if that feeling didn't have to end when the calendar changed?
What if summer wasn't just a season...but a state of mind?
A joyful life isn't built on perfect weather or a vacation schedule. It's built by intentionally noticing the good that's already around us. It's choosing to step outside for a walk instead of scrolling through our phones. It's laughing until our cheeks hurt with people we love. It's trying something new, saying yes to adventure, and slowing down long enough to watch a sunset.
Joy loves sunshine - not because sunshine solves our problems, but because it reminds us to pause and appreciate life's simple gifts.
One of the reasons I love summer is that it naturally encourages us to get outside. Fresh air, movement, and a little sunshine have an amazing way of lifting our mood and restoring our perspective. Whether it's a morning walk, a game of pickleball, gardening, reading on the porch, or spending time at the lake, nature has a way of reminding us to breathe.
And let's not forget one of my favorite F Words...Fun!
Somewhere along the way, many adults stopped giving themselves permission to play. We become so focused on responsibilities that we forget joy often shows up in the simplest moments: chasing your dog around the yard, eating watermelon on the patio, dancing in the kitchen, trying paddleboarding for the first time, or sharing ice cream with your grandchildren.
Joy isn't childish.
It's life-giving.
So today, I want to challenge you to create your own "summer state of mind."
- Open the windows.
- Take the scenic route.
- Watch the sunrise.
- Invite a friend to lunch.
- Wear the bright outfit you've been saving.
- Eat dinner outside.
- Take your shoes off and feel the grass beneath your feet.
Most importantly, give yourself permission to enjoy this season of life, whatever season you're personally walking through.
Because joy isn't waiting for everything to be perfect.
Joy is found in the moments we choose to notice.
Here's your July Joy Challenge: Spend at least 30 minutes outside every day this week. Leave your phone in your pocket, soak up some sunshine, and pay attention to three things that make you smile. You might be surprised by how much joy has been there all along.
Here's to living with a summer state of mind - this month and every month.
