The Point Wasn’t Summer: It Was You

We kicked off this series with one big idea: Remember when summer meant something? “Remember when summer meant no homework, bikes in the driveway, sunburns from staying out too long, and losing track of time until the streetlights came on?“

It wasn’t just about vacations or sunshine. It was about feeling lighter. Freer. A little more human. That feeling—the ease and openness of summer—wasn’t just tied to childhood. It was tied to the way we allowed ourselves to live a little differently. To slow down. To say yes to joy.

Over the last few weeks, we’ve nudged you to: 

• Step outside. 

• Power down your devices. 

• Rest. 

• Move. 

• Eat lunch away from your desk. 

• Let yourself be bored. 

• Sleep more. 

• Play again. 

• Actually use your PTO. 

These simple choices may seem small, but they have a measurable impact on your physical health, mental clarity, and overall well‑being. Studies show that intentional breaks—especially short, self‑selected ones—help reduce burnout, boost productivity, and spark creativity.

• A meta-analysis across over 2,300 participants found that micro-breaks (10 minutes or less) consistently boost vigor and reduce fatigue—even if performance gains can depend on the task at hand. PMC

• Research from Harvard Business Review confirms that brief breaks during work hours don’t detract from performance—in fact, they can improve it by giving your brain breathing room. Harvard Business Review

• Cornell Health reports that purposeful breaks—anywhere from 5 to 60 minutes—can increase energy, productivity, and focus during work or study sessions. Cornell Health

• And new findings from Baylor University suggest that breaks are most effective when individuals can choose how to spend them—driving replenishment and reducing burnout. Baylor University News

None of these nudges are revolutionary. And none of them require summer. But together, they remind us that life is more than deadlines and deliverables. You are more than your output.

Reclaiming time to rest, to move your body, or even to laugh during your lunch break isn’t frivolous—it’s foundational. These habits are not just good for morale; they’re essential to your long-term health, your creative thinking, your resilience, and your joy.

Burnout is real but so is recovery. 

We hope this series didn’t just remind you to slow down—it helped you remember that you don’t need permission. Not to rest. Not to play. Not to be a whole person, beyond just your role or your responsibilities.

Your final nudge:

Don’t wait for next summer. Keep choosing rest, joy, and presence—even when the calendar flips. 

Thanks for spending the season with us.