There’s something about July that calls us to reflect on the year so far. It’s a halfway point, a natural pause to look back at what’s been, notice what’s working, and gently ask what we want to carry with us into the second half of the year.
It’s not about scrapping everything and starting again, or making huge declarations. It’s more about softening, making space, and maybe clearing some of the noise so you can hear yourself a little better. After a busy June, I’ve been thinking a lot about simplicity, about finding quiet, about flowing with life instead of trying to grip so tightly. And that’s what I’m carrying into this month.
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Keep Things Simple
If it feels too complicated, it probably is. The Tao Te Ching teaches us that simplicity is powerful, that life has a natural flow when we stop trying to over-control every detail. This month, I’m leaning into what’s straightforward, what feels light, what I can actually carry with me without feeling weighed down.
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Notice When You’re Swept Away
Overwhelm happens, it’s part of life. But the trick is catching it. I’ve realised lately that I can get completely caught up in my thoughts without even noticing, and that awareness, just that gentle noticing, can be enough to soften it. This month, I’m aiming to stay in the seat of awareness a little more, and not let my thoughts run the whole show.
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Flow Instead of Force
We’re so used to pushing, fixing, and making things happen. But sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is wait, watch, and allow things to unfold in their own time. I’m reminding myself this month to move with the pace of nature, slow, steady, responsive, instead of forcing outcomes.
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Prioritise Joy
It sounds so simple, but I think we forget that joy can be a decision. I’m letting myself lean into the things that make me smile, even if they feel “unproductive” or random. Joy isn’t just a reward, it’s a guide. It shows us where we feel most alive.
Living With Intention This July
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Choose the simple option. Whether it’s your plans, your work, or your meals, pick what feels light and doable.
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Pause and notice when your mind starts spinning. Take a breath, let it settle.
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Move towards what flows naturally. If you’re constantly meeting resistance, it might not be the right time.
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Make space for joy. Watch the sunset, cook something you love, or spend time with people who make you laugh.
A Quote to Carry
"Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished." - Lao Tzu
This has been a quiet anchor for me lately. A soft reminder that we don’t need to rush to get where we’re going. Trusting the pace of things is sometimes the most powerful step we can take. Whatever this month holds for you, I hope you find ways to move gently, protect your energy, and keep choosing what truly feels right for you.