It’s summer here in North America…which usually means vacations and time with family and friends. And I’m on one right now…a family vacation at the beach. Our days are filled with beach time, games, meals and lots of laughter. And as much as I love spending time with everyone I also know that I need some time for me.

Maybe you know that feeling too. A holiday gathering, a trip with friends, a long weekend…the people are wonderful, and yet you still need a little time for yourself to find some peace and quiet, some battery recharging time.

Because when we gather, our agendas blend into one. The group usually decides when we eat, swim, talk, rest. And there’s nothing wrong with that…it’s just not always your rhythm.

So this week, here are three small ways I’m claiming a few minutes just for me…

• Sunrise. Before anyone’s awake, I’m watching the sky shift and change colors.
• A few lines in my journal, while the house is still quiet.
• A short walk on the beach…no destination in mind…just me and the ocean.

In case you need some inspiration for your own summer vacation, here are a few things to consider…

Your Vacation Invitations

1. Protect your first five minutes: Before the day begins, give yourself just five minutes that belong entirely to you. Reading, breathing, stillness, savoring tea or coffee...whatever helps you start the day having given yourself time for you. ​
   ​
2. Say no to activities that drain you, not just the ones that are easy to skip. Not just the obvious things, but even the small moments that feel like too much. It’s okay to sit out the board game or skip the matinee if what you need is quiet instead.
   ​
3. Keep one moment unscheduled. Let a small pocket of the day remain open. Not everything needs a plan. Sometimes the most restorative moments are the ones that aren’t filled.

What’s one thing you are doing just for you this summer?

Sending love and relaxing vibes, Chris

PS - When you’re' ready to create more space for you in your life, reach out. You can reply to this email, book a call or even sign up for my ​Spark Session which is a one-hour coaching session designed to help you slow down and see what needs to shift so you can create more space for yourself in the life you already have.