Halfway there: a midsummer reflection

As we welcome July in earnest, we find ourselves standing at the year’s midpoint.

Let’s do the math. Divide 366 by 2 (it’s a leap year, you know), and you get 183. Then, if we continue ciphering, we’ll see that July 1 was the 183rd day.

That was a little over a week ago. Did you miss that unique moment, that day of equilibrium? A day that allowed us to pause and reflect on the journey of the past six months and prepare for the adventure that the next six months promise?

If so, all is not lost. We can still evaluate our accomplishments and set our sights on the future during this time of “Midsummer Reflection.”

In the first half of the year, we all undoubtedly experienced a mixture of triumphs and setbacks. Perhaps you set out with a list of resolutions back in January. I recall that I had several “gentle goals” – a nomenclature first for me.

If you, too, had goals you were reaching for, how many of those have you accomplished? Maybe you finally started that exercise routine, learned a new skill, or actually stuck to a healthier diet. These successes, no matter how small they seem, are worth celebrating.

However, such journeys are rarely smooth. Moments arise when our resolve weakens, when plans don’t unfold as expected, or when unforeseen challenges knock us off course. It’s important to acknowledge these setbacks not as failures, but as learning experiences. Each misstep offers valuable lessons that can guide us as we move forward. Exploring these moments helps us understand what worked, what didn’t and why.

Now, as we gaze into the second half of the year, we have an opportunity to realign our ambitions. What do you hope – what do I hope – to achieve by Dec. 31? Now is the time to reassess priorities and make adjustments. We can again consider setting realistic, achievable goals, breaking them down into manageable steps to make progress more tangible.

Perhaps like me, you’ve been putting off certain tasks or dreams, waiting for the “right time.” Well, the right time is now. Use this midpoint as a catalyst to initiate those projects, whether it’s starting a new hobby, advancing your career, or fostering relationships that matter. The beauty of Midsummer Reflection is that it offers a clean slate, a chance to refocus and reignite your passion.

One powerful way to make the most of the coming months is to embrace change. We often resist change out of fear or comfort, but it’s through change that we grow. Let’s evaluate areas of our lives where change is needed and take proactive steps toward improvement. Whether it’s adopting a new mindset, changing daily routines, or letting go of habits that no longer serve us, embracing change can lead to significant personal growth.

Mistakes in the first half of the year need not define the remainder. Instead, let’s use them as stepping stones. Forgive yourself for past errors, learn from them, and move forward with renewed determination. Practice self-compassion and understand that everyone stumbles. What matters is how we rise and move forward.

As we celebrate this halfway mark, let’s take time to reflect. Join me: Write down your achievements, lessons learned and goals for the next six months. Share your thoughts with friends and family, encouraging them to embark on their own journey. These midsummer musings can be a communal experience, a period for collective growth and support.

As the summer sun blazes, let’s use this midpoint to our advantage. With half the year behind us and half ahead, we have the power to shape our future. Let’s embrace Midsummer Reflection as a time of balance, growth and endless possibilities.