Five Ways I am Protecting My Peace This Summer (and you should too)

It’s finally summer — and whew, the relief. I survived 2L, I secured an incredible internship, and after nonstop hustle, I’m finally coming up for air. That alone deserves a celebration.

Last summer? I was doing all the things, and honestly, I haven’t had a real break since starting law school. But this summer is different. My 3LOL has officially begun. And yes, it’s a playful saying, but it holds real meaning for me: I’m slowing down.

I’m choosing to take on less, to soak in joy, to honor how far I’ve come, and to actually enjoy this season of my life.

So, with that energy in mind, here are 5 ways I’m protecting my peace this summer and maybe, just maybe, you’ll feel inspired to do the same.

1. Reclaiming My Morning Routine

No more rolling out of bed just to dive straight into emails or rushing out the door to catch up on work. As a morning person, I’ve decided to actually enjoy my mornings, not just survive them.

Lately, I’ve been giving myself space to read or write a few thoughts for this blog, instead of immediately switching into work mode. I’ve perfected my at-home coffee and it’s officially better than any coffeeshop and making it has become part of the ritual. When my internship begins I’ll leave time to stroll around my new building before heading in; no longer rushing like I’m already behind on the day. My mornings feel calm, intentional and that small shift has made a huge difference to my goal of slowing down

2. I’m Making Space for Joy That Has Nothing To Do With Law

This summer is not just about building my resume it’s about actually living my life.

I just read Seven Days in June in two days (it’s that good). I picked it up because I needed a break from all the political science and self-help books I usually gravitate toward, and as much as I love those, a romance that doesn’t make me think too hard? Yes, please.

Oh, and did I mention I saw Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar/Sza this May? The moral of the story I will be outside this summer. A joy-for-no-reason, book-devouring, music-blasting kind of summer. And I deserve that.

3. I’m Letting Go Of the To-Do Lists

Okay, this might be niche, but I am the girl who has a to-do list for every single day. Even if it’s just laundry, cleaning the bathroom, or “text so-and-so back,” it’s written down, planned, and waiting to be checked off.

And honestly? I’m tired.

Planning out every hour of my day has started to feel more suffocating than helpful. This summer, I’m giving myself permission to not have a plan. To wake up with no agenda. To rot a little. To move slowly. To not spiral when I don’t get to everything (or anything) on a list I made up in the first place.

I’m learning that it’s okay to have days where the only thing I accomplish is existing. That is plenty.

4. More Solo Dates

This summer, I’m leaning all the way into quality time with me.

The first time I went on a solo date, it wasn’t even the plan. I had agreed to attend a networking event in the city, but when I arrived, the anxiety hit hard. I couldn’t bring myself to walk in and schmooze. I had already commuted an hour into the city, so instead of heading straight back home, I made a different choice. I took myself to La Pecora Bianca, one of my favorite spots with the freshest lemonade and farm-to-table food.

I sat in silence that night; people-watched in peace, and let myself just be. It was just a really good meal and a moment of calm I didn’t know I needed. Since then, solo dates have become a form of self-care.

We’ve got plenty more dates coming this summer too. I have a Google Maps list full of restaurants I want to try, and I plan on crossing off as many as possible. Just me, my appetite, and my peace.

5. I’m Talking Nice To Myself

I am hard on myself. Like unnecessarily harsh. I’d make a small mistake, forget one thing on my to-do list, or not be as “on” as usual, and immediately the voice in my head would go off. This summer, I’m turning her off.

I’m learning to catch myself when I start spiraling and remind myself that one off day doesn’t cancel out everything I’ve accomplished. I’m being more patient when I miss a deadline or just don’t have the energy. And instead I ask myself what I actually need. A snack? A nap? A little grace? I’ve realized I can be disciplined and driven without tearing myself apart. I can talk to myself like someone I care about. And honestly, I’m starting to feel a lot better for it.

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This summer, I’m not just preparing for my next chapter; I’m fully embracing the one I’m in. I'm learning to slow down, savor simple moments, and find meaning in the present instead of always chasing what's next. Growth doesn’t always look like a big leap it can be found in quiet reflection, laughter with friends, or a peaceful afternoon alone.