Heyy, corporate cutie. Just because your calendar is packed doesn’t mean your peace has to be.

It’s that time of year — half your coworkers are OOO, your group chat is on a beach somewhere, and you’re… still in meetings, replying to emails, and trying to pretend you’re totally unbothered. (You’re not. It’s okay.)

While summer is supposed to be the season of ease, the reality for many of us is a little more… Microsoft Teams and muted envy. But here’s the thing — even when your schedule doesn’t scream “vacation mode,” you can still bring moments of peace, joy, and intentionality into your day.

Let’s talk about how to romanticize the rhythm of your workday and keep your inner sparkle alive — even if your PTO balance says otherwise.

☕ 1. Start with a Ritual (Even if It’s Just a Better Cup of Coffee)

Summer mornings hit differently. Try waking up ten minutes earlier to slow your roll — think: a breezy playlist, your favorite mug, a few deep breaths on the balcony, or a short journaling or meditation moment to set the tone.

Not a morning person? Pick one small sensory upgrade. An iced latte in a wine glass (or in my case, my grandmother’s fancy crystal). A spritz of your favorite summery perfume. A five-minute dance break. Tiny rituals matter.

💻 2. Create 

Mental Summer Fridays

If your workload won’t allow for a true Summer Friday, you can still shift the vibe. When possible, schedule meetings earlier, knock out your “no matter what” tasks by noon, and save the afternoon for admin work, creative projects, or a podcast that makes you feel human again.

Even if you’re still at your desk, your energy doesn’t have to stay in full-on hustle mode all day.

🧊 3. Romanticize the Office (Yes, Really)

Sure, the office isn’t a rooftop bar — but that doesn’t mean it has to be a soul-suck either. Bring in a little dopamine:

• Change your Teams or Zoom background to a beach or mountain view
• Sip on something summery (lemon LaCroix, raspberry rose Poppi, a mocktail in your prettiest cup)
• Light a candle if you WFH — or use a candle warmer at your desk
• Add desk accessories or fake plants (no shame — I can’t keep real ones alive either)
• Wear something breezy that makes you feel hot (in a good way — not the sweaty and overstimulated kind)

🌿 4. Make Time for a Midday Mindful Break

My office doesn’t have a window, and I feel it when I’ve been sitting too long. I can barely tell what time it is, so I make it a point to walk around as much as I can. You deserve a break too — even if it’s just five minutes.

Try:

• A walk around the block with your phone on Do Not Disturb (you can call them back in 10)
• Listening to a song that reminds you of a summer you loved (Harry Styles’ Golden feels like driving the PCH with the windows down)
• Reading one page of a favorite book while you eat lunch outside

Small pauses like these signal to your brain and body that this day isn’t just about work — it’s about you, too.

🥂 5. End the Day with a Little Celebration

You made it through another week — and you did it with grace (and probably a thousand Google Calendar tabs). Whether it’s a solo glass of rosé, a patio dinner with your besties, or a golden-hour walk with a playlist that makes you feel like the main character, let the end of your week feel like the exhale it deserves.

☀️ Final Thoughts

You don’t need PTO to claim peace.

You just need a few intentional moments, a little romantic rebellion against the grind, and a reminder that your life doesn’t have to be on pause while everyone else is away.

This summer, let your workdays hold room for joy, too. You’re allowed.

Mindfully,
MK