I LOVE summer.  I do not like summer, I LOVE it.  Despite the inch-thick layer of gooey sunscreen I have to wear, despite the bozo-esque hair I sport after a dip in the pool, I still think summer rocks.  It’s the one time of the year when all my kids are free at the same time.  We don’t have to be at gymnastics, girl scouts or soccer.  We are free to rome and explore and do as we please.

One of my favorite things to do on these steamy days is take the kids on mini-adventures.  We explore different parts of the city, a new beach or a new restaurant.  Last weekend we went into the North End of Boston and had pizza, gelato and a carousel ride.  I find after these little outings my mind feels freer and I have many more creative ideas.  I also often find myself adapting or incorporating something from these experiences into my routine when I return home.  This time it happened to be a wonderful watermelon and basil salad, yum.

Summer is a great time to re-energize your brand too.  Things are not as rigid and structured as the rest of the year.  It’s easier to try something new.  I’m not talking about radically changing who you are or what you stand for, but rather opening up to new possibilities that feel exciting and authentic.  New exposures and experiences can give our brands new life and greater depth.

So next time you find yourself meandering through an exotic spice shop or people watching on a park bench, don’t chastise yourself for not being behind your desk.  Just think of it as a working vacation.  See you on the beach!