Getting Things Done When Summer Throws Off Your Routine

By Erin House & Tracey Ropp 

Summer tends to shake things up. Even if you're not “off” for the season, the usual rhythm of life often changes. School’s out, coworkers might be on vacation, childcare routines shift, and everything seems just a little less predictable. 

For many people—students, professionals, parents, or anyone juggling multiple roles—this looser structure can feel freeing and frustrating. It can be harder to stay focused, start tasks, or follow through on plans. You’re not alone in that. And you’re not doing anything wrong. 

The good news? You don’t need a perfect schedule to feel productive and steady. A little flexible structure can help you stay on track—without ignoring the realities of summer. 

1. Notice What’s Changed (and What Hasn’t) 

Summer doesn’t always mean time off. You might still be working, taking classes, or caring for others. But even when obligations continue, the usual cues and routines can feel different—fewer meetings, lighter traffic, different energy at home. 

Instead of trying to force your old routine to fit, start by recognizing what’s shifted. What feels easier? What’s harder to manage? Noticing the difference helps you adjust with intention. 

2. Use Anchors, Not Rigid Schedules 

When days feel unpredictable, rigid routines often fall apart. Instead, try using anchors—reliable moments in your day that you can build around. These might include: 

• After your first cup of coffee 

• Once the kids are out the door (or home for quiet time) 

• Midday breaks 

• After dinner wind-downs 

Anchors give you structure without the pressure of the clock, and they work whether you're working full-time, parenting, studying, or all of the above. 

3. Set Fewer, Clearer Priorities 

During times of shifting routines, clarity matters more than volume. Instead of creating a long to-do list, identify one or two top priorities for the day. Ask: 

• What needs to happen today? 

• What would feel good to move forward? 

• What’s realistic, given my energy and time? 

This approach keeps things manageable and more likely to get done. 

4. Experiment with Short Bursts of Focus 

You might not have long stretches of uninterrupted time right now. That’s okay. Try short bursts instead—15 to 25 minutes to focus on one thing, followed by a short reset. 

You don’t need to finish the whole project, just move it forward. These small steps add up. 

5. Find Flexible Accountability 

If you’re feeling unmotivated or distracted, try light, supportive accountability. 

 That might look like: 

• Leaving your to-do list somewhere visible 

• Sharing your goals with a colleague, partner, or friend 

• Checking in with someone weekly 

• Working alongside someone (in person or virtually) 

Accountability doesn’t need to be strict—it just helps remind you of what matters when your brain is somewhere else. 

6. Redefine What “Productive” Looks Like 

Productivity isn’t just about output; it’s also about alignment with what matters to you. What helps you feel steady, clear, or connected? That might include: 

• Taking care of small tasks to reduce mental clutter 

• Making progress on a personal or creative goal 

• Spending 30 minutes on something that matters to you 

• Resting so you can return with focus later 

Especially during seasons of transition, being productive might mean being present, not busy. 

Final Thoughts 

Summer often changes the way our days unfold—whether we’re working, caregiving, studying, or a bit of everything. When your routine shifts, it’s normal for focus and follow-through to wobble. 

But with a little soft structure, clear priorities, and gentle self-direction, you can feel grounded, even when the usual schedule is nowhere to be found. 

This isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what matters most, in the way that works for you right now. 

At Embrace Thoughtful Learning, we support students, professionals, and lifelong learners in building personalized approaches to productivity, organization, and well-being. Reach out to learn how we can help. 

The ideas shared in this post are for general reflection and informational purposes. Everyone’s needs are different, and this content isn’t meant to replace personalized or professional support. If you’d benefit from one-on-one guidance, consider reaching out to us, or another qualified professional. In our independent private practices we offer counselling and psychotherapy virtually to individuals living in Ontario, Canada.