Forget the idea that summer means hitting pause on your career. With a bit of intention, it's actually the perfect time to make smart moves toward your goals!

Summer often brings a slightly slower pace at work, giving you the mental space to refocus, learn, and grow. Whether you're dreaming of a promotion, a career switch, or just want to feel more energized in your work, summer is yours to seize.

Let's dive into actionable tips to help you take advantage of the season and get closer to where you want to be professionally.

Tip 1: Set Specific Goals

Don't just drift through summer expecting that career magic will suddenly happen in the Fall.  What do you REALLY want to achieve by the end of the year? More visibility at work? A promotion? New skills in a cutting-edge field?

Action Step for You: Break down your big-picture goal into 2-3 smaller milestones you can aim for this summer. This makes progress feel achievable!

...

Feeling a bit lost or disconnected in your career? Like, when you finally take a moment to catch your breath and look around, do you think “Is this all there is?” Or “I don't know what I want to do next but it ain’t this!”

It's a completely normal experience, especially for women at this career stage. Many of us find it challenging to expand our network or feel unsure of how to tap into its potential. Let's tackle this head-on with advice designed just for you.

1 Problem 1: "I feel out of touch/out of the loop after a career break."

Taking time out of the workforce happens, whether it's to raise a family or tackle personal circumstances. But stepping back in can feel intimidating. First, remember you have valuable skills and experience.

Here's how to reconnect and update your network:

Reconnect with Purpose
Reach out to former colleagues and see what they're up to. You can send them a quick message via...