Sunsets & Self-Reflections: A Look Back on Summer
Summer tends to arrive slowly and disappear quickly. We long for it during the dark, cold winter months but rush past it when cool fall evenings are on the horizon.
While we are entering into August, it is easy to shift your focus to the school year, unintentionally leaving behind the memories, lessons, struggles, and growth that summer brought. Reflection is an important and often overlooked practice in our fast-paced culture. We are often “on to the next” before we take the chance to pause and honor where we’ve just been.
That’s why we’ve created this guided reflection for the Summer of 2025. Whether you journal your answers, talk them through with a loved one, or simply reflect quietly, we hope these prompts help you connect more deeply with the season you’re leaving behind.
What was the most memorable moment of your summer? Why does this moment stand out?
Think of a time that brought you joy, connection, or meaning. It could be a moment shared with those you love or something you experienced on your own.
Think of something that challenged you this summer. How did you grow from it?
Every season of life has its own challenges. Each challenge fosters new growth. The more we recognize and value our growth, the more resilient we become for what lies ahead.
How did you take care of your mental or emotional health over the summer?
Emotional and mental wellness can look different during different times of the year. If this wasn’t a priority, what might it look like to incorporate more emotional and mental wellness moving forward?
What did this season of summer teach you about your needs, boundaries, or values?
Do you need more boundaries? Did you notice your needs were not being met consistently? Are things more or less important to you than they previously were? Our needs, boundaries, and values change over time, and it is important to notice when they do.
Is there anything you need to let go of as we transition out of summer? If so, how will you do that?
Now is the time to take inventory of what is working and not working in our daily lives. You’re free to let go of things, patterns, behaviors, etc. that no longer serve you.