May I?: Summer Self-Care Ideas for Independent Practice Owners

As the summer season rolls in, we often find ourselves juggling the demands of our practice with the need for personal time and relaxation. It can be easy to get caught up in the hustle of running a business, but taking the time to prioritize self-care, recharge and enjoy the warmer months is essential for long-term success and well-being.

In this article, I’ve curated a list of “May I?” ideas designed specifically for independent practice owners.

These suggestions aim to help you strike a balance between work and personal life this summer, offering ways to embrace the season while ensuring your physical, mental and emotional health remain a top priority. Whether it’s indulging in new hobbies, taking time off for rest, or simply enjoying the outdoors, these ideas are your guide to making the most of summer while staying refreshed and energized.

May I Take a Break to Recharge?

• Give yourself permission to take time off for rest and relaxation to avoid burnout. We often feel our practices can’t survive without us, but they really can! A short break can be energizing and invigorating.

May I Plan a Staycation?

• Instead of traveling far, consider taking a staycation and exploring local attractions, restaurants or nature spots. I live in a beach community in Connecticut and look forward to taking a week off in August just to enjoy where I live.

May I Start a New Hobby or Learn Something New?

• Use the slower pace of summer to try out a new activity, like painting, gardening or learning to cook a new recipe. What’s new for me this summer? Learning to sail and play mahjong is at the top of my list!

May I Get Up Early for Morning Peace?

• Allow yourself the joy of quiet mornings, perhaps with a cup of coffee and some time for reflection before the day gets busy. The days getting lighter earlier make this a little easier compared to the dark mornings of winter. Plus, if you like to get out for a walk, doing it early can make it more enjoyable!

May I Take a Digital Detox?

• Unplug from work emails, social media or screen time to give your mind a break and be more present in the moment. It can be tempting to unwind at the beach with your phone, but spend that time reading a new book!

May I Set a Summer Reading Goal?

• Set aside time to read books you’ve been wanting to explore, whether they are business-related or just for pure enjoyment.

My summer reading list includes:

• Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection by Charles Duhigg
• Cues: Master the Secret Language of Charismatic Communication by Vanessa Van Edwards
• Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell

Have I inspired you to ask “May I?” about something? I can’t wait to hear what you gave yourself permission to try this summer!