There are just a few times each year when life slows down enough to really take a breath—and for me, that moment is August.
Maybe it's the longer daylight hours, the lingering energy of vacation (whether you're heading out or just returning), or the simple fact that school is out and family time is easier to come by. Whatever the reason, August always feels like the perfect time for creativity, connection, and a bit of summer exploration.
Here are a few of my current summer favorites—things I’ve been loving lately that keep me inspired, grounded, and a little more joyful this season:
Getting Lost in a Great Book. There’s something magical about reading outside on a summer evening. I recently finished Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall, and I truly couldn’t put it down. The story was compelling, and those extra daylight hours gave me the perfect excuse to stay out on the patio a little longer.
Exploring Creative AI Prompts. One of my favorite ways to stay curious is experimenting with AI prompts. I could easily spend hours (and do) diving into new topics—my only challenge is picking which one to start with! At Alipes, we share our favorite prompts with each other, learning everything from how to write stronger creative briefs to enhancing professional headshots. It's fun and a great way to uncover unexpected insights.
Car Dancing with the Windows Down. It’s not summer without that one song you can’t stop blasting. You know the one: windows down, volume up, singing like no one’s watching. There’s a kind of freedom in it that just doesn’t hit the same once the cold New England air returns. (Still worth it, though.)
Meeting New People and Expanding My Network. August always feels like the right time to branch out. Whether it’s attending an event, discovering a new podcast, or reaching out to someone new on LinkedIn, I try to stay open to new conversations. Maybe it’s the lighter schedule, or maybe I’m just in a friendlier mood, but I am always on the lookout to learn or talk about what we are up to at Alipes.
Prioritizing Time with Loved Ones. Let’s face it: September gets hectic. Between annual planning, back-to-school campaigns, and Q4 prep, our calendars fill up fast. That’s why I treat August as a moment to pause and reconnect—with friends, with family, and even with myself. It’s a reminder that I adore the people in my life!
So here’s to making the most of the rest of summer. Say yes to something new, explore just for the fun of it, and let August inspire you. And if you’ve discovered any life-changing AI prompts or favorite reads lately, send them our way!