Hey Reader,

Listen... a break is in order!

I'm taking a break from Tips Tuesday until the end of August.

And this is not just a random decision, it's actually pretty intentional. Let me tell you why this matters for YOUR business too.

Here's the thing about breaks, they're not just nice to have. They're actually strategic business decisions.

Tips Tuesday has become one of my favorite ways to interact with my people. With an open rate of over 60%, and at least 2-3 replies from you guys a week, they are my most engaging online space.

This is motivated by two main things:

• My son goes to year-round school, which means he gets the entire month of July off for summer.
• July is also my anniversary month (the studio will be closed July 9-10 for my anniversary)

...and honestly? I love moving a little slower during this time.

That looks like waking up a little later, maybe having more mid-day outings to get out in nature or to head to the farmers' market, and overall operating with a less rigid schedule in my business and personal life.

And you know what? My business is better for it.

The Permission You Didn't Know You Needed

I see it all the time with my clients. This guilt around taking breaks. Like somehow stepping away from your business for a few days (or weeks!) means you're not dedicated enough or serious about your success.

But here's what's actually happening when you give yourself permission to pause:

Your creativity gets a chance to refill. Those breakthrough ideas? They don't come when you're running on empty. They come when your brain has space to wander and make new connections.

Your systems get tested. Nothing shows you what's working (and what isn't) like stepping away. If your business can't handle you taking a break, that's valuable information about what needs to be systemized better.

Your perspective shifts. When you're in the daily grind, it's hard to see the big picture. Breaks give you that 30,000-foot view that helps you make better strategic decisions.

You model healthy boundaries. Your team, your family, and, yes, even your clients, need to see that you value rest and sustainability. It gives them permission to do the same.

What This Break Looks Like for Studio117

I'm not disappearing completely though - client work continues, support requests still get answered, and the business keeps running. But I am intentionally slowing down the content creation and allowing myself more flexibility in how I structure my days.

This isn't about being lazy or checking out. It's about being intentional with my energy so I can show up even better when I'm back.

Your Turn: Where Do You Need Permission to Pause?

Maybe it's not a long break. Maybe it's:

• Taking actual lunch breaks instead of eating at your desk
• Not checking email after 6 PM during your kid's summer break
• Saying no to that networking event because you need a quiet evening at home
• Postponing that big project launch until after your family vacation
• Giving yourself permission to work shorter days during the summer

The key is being intentional about it, rather than feeling guilty about it.

What to Expect While I'm in Slow Mode

Tips Tuesday emails will resume the first Tuesday in September (that's September 2nd - mark your calendar!). If you have questions you'd like answered via a Tips Tuesday email, you can always submit them here.

Client work continues as usual. If you need support, I am still available to assist you. Just moving with a little more intention and a lot less rush.

When I'm back, I'll have fresh ideas, renewed energy, and most likely some new creative inspiration.

Need help setting up systems so YOUR business can handle you taking breaks?

That's literally what we do! Hit reply and let's talk about creating the kind of infrastructure that lets you step away with confidence.

Remember: Your business needs you at your best, not your most exhausted.

Here's to moving slower, resting deeper, and showing up better.

P.S. Don't forget to back up your website!