Summer will look different for everyone, but for a large number of us the rhythms, activities, and responsibilities will be a big contrast to our normal. This may include less time at work if we have annual leave or less intense work due to the seasonal ebb.

Because of this it can be a great time to explore and enjoy our strengths, unleashed from the assumptions of the everyday. So here are 3 powerful practices for doing just that:

1. Use the space of summer to intentionally do those things you know you're good at. Our strengths only stay strengths if we practice them regularly, but they also return to us an energy and engagement that is vital for a refreshing summer.

2. Experiment without utility. One of the 'Clues to Purpose' I use in my Unleash Your Purpose course is 'Know Your Weird', which is all about embracing those things that excite you even if they don't fit others' (or even your) assumptions about you (you can find more of these Clues to Purpose in my free 5-step guide). These clues can tell us a lot about our deeper identities. Again, summer is a great time to explore, experiment, revisit, or double down on enjoying your 'things'.

3. Embrace the margin. Often our strengths really deliver 'the magic' when we have space for our mind and body to linger rather than incessantly drive forward. Cal Newport writes brilliantly about this in his book 'Slow Productivity'. So have the discipline to break the 'what's next' mentality and accept the rare opportunity of margin in your schedule, thoughts, and activities.

Personal development certainly shouldn't be something to 'cram in' during our annual leave. But following practices such as these to connect to our purpose and strengths will actually help enhance the refreshment of your summer!

Don't miss out on the clarity, self-exploration, and margin that summer can offer you!