Palm trees, sunny skies, bustling city streets and sea breezes. Charleston is the place we are lucky enough to call home—a place most people plan vacations to. But what does real life look like when our vacation-worthy home is also the place we work? A place with real responsibilities and to-dos. How can we find balance enjoying the beautiful place we call home while also running a business, tending to summer schedules and perhaps altering our schedule just enough to let loose?
Angele Gerten, financial advisor with Primerica, and Anna Laura Sommer, founder of Sommer Media and Shine Studio on King Street, are both local, powerhouse women offering their insight on finding the right balance of work and play this summer season. From boundaries to burnout, these ladies are here to share all the details.
DESIGN YOUR SCHEDULE AROUND LIFE
“Charleston definitely has a rhythm in the summer, and I’ve learned that trying to fight it usually leads to burnout,” Sommer begins. She added, “I’ve had to learn to design my schedule around life, not the other way around.”
Both women consistently repeat the same word when adopting the seasonal summer mindset: intentionality. We are the creators of our calendars, and “yes” is often the easier option. It takes true intentionality to sit back (in moderation) and enjoy the season.
“We have a slower start to our days, and I intentionally plan Lowcountry adventures throughout the summer,” Gerten said. She continued, “Business doesn’t necessarily slow down, but I’m very intentional about putting boundaries around family time.”
SET YOUR BOUNDARIES
Speaking of boundaries, both women are strong advocates for them. Little things like putting your phone on “Do Not Disturb” and not feeling the pressure to respond to every message immediately are small ways Sommer and Gerten set their own boundaries.
Gerten noted, “Those small disciplines make a big difference in protecting personal time,” and Sommer echoed the sentiment and reminded us that “most things can wait.” As you set new seasonal rhythms, be sure to mark out time on your calendar for family, friends and the little things that make you come alive.
SIMPLE THINGS, BIG IMPACT
In fact, it’s often the simple things that have the biggest impact. “Some of my favorite summer moments here are actually the simplest ones,” Sommer said. Slower mornings to enjoy coffee and quiet time are how Sommer sets her day up for success in the summer. Omitting the pre-work hustle is life-giving and can be the very thing that slips your brain into its summer rhythm.
This summer, be intentional about what brings you joy. For Gerten, it’s all about the water. “Most of our favorite summer moments revolve around the water—whether it’s the pool, the ocean or being out on a boat.” In Sommer’s season with small children, her focus is on simple things with a larger impact. “Some of my favorite summer moments here are actually the simplest ones, like quick beach trips or just spending time outside with friends and family.”
This summer, make it happen instead of letting it slip away.
HONOR THE SEASON YOU’RE IN
“Charleston has a way of reminding us that life moves in seasons,” Sommer said. And what a beautiful reminder it is. A reminder to enjoy the place we are lucky enough to call home while still showing up for our businesses, intentionally.
“Give yourself permission to honor the season you’re in,” Gerten added. Some seasons are filled with new growth and others are for planning ahead. Take time to assess the season you’re in and make the most of it.
Cheers to summer rhythms and finding what makes you come alive this summer.
By Katie Finch