5/12/25: Summer Hustle Survival: How to Manage Expectations Without Losing Your Mind

I think it’s fitting that this week’s topic is the summer hustle and managing our own expectations—especially since this blog is a day late. Summer hasn’t even officially started, and I’m already feeling the chaos.

Some of you may know that I also work with a local poker tour. Our “peak” season wrapped up last weekend, and I foolishly thought that would free up some space on my calendar. Spoiler alert: it didn’t.

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to join a 10-week course to help grow my business—tuition fully covered by the North Dakota Department of Commerce. It’s a huge opportunity I’m grateful for, but it comes with four hours of class time weekly and what feels like a never-ending stream of homework. Could I phone it in? Sure. But that’s not me. I’m here to go all in.

At the same time, I’m pushing hard to take Balance & Business with Melissa to the next level. And as every entrepreneur knows, with each step forward, the to-do list multiplies like rabbits.

All of that—and I’m still a wife and mom. It’s the end-of-school chaos, summer prep, a mini vacation, Father/Daughter Dance, Girl Scout Bridging, grad parties, and Jeremy heading into his busy season. Add in the unspoken pressure of being everything to everyone…it’s a lot.

Here’s the truth: as women, we want to be everything for everyone all the time. But it’s not necessary—and worse, it’s not fulfilling. This summer, you’ll likely feel pulled between being a present mom and giving your business the time and energy it needs. You can do both—but only if you manage your expectations.

It’s okay if your kids don’t hit every camp, sport, or summer event. A fulfilling summer doesn’t have to be packed from sun-up to sun-down. It can be as simple as library visits, day camps here and there, pool time, and some quiet walks. And yes—time set aside to work your business.

Your work doesn’t have to stop just because school’s out…unless that’s what you want. It’s more than okay to block time during the day or week to handle your business priorities. Just remember: summer doesn’t magically give you more hours. You still get 24. Use them wisely. Decide what truly matters—and let go of the rest.