Mid-Year Heart Check

After spending time with so many managers at convention, one thought stayed with me during the drive home.

Growth doesn't always look dramatic.

Sometimes it looks like a conversation that would have felt intimidating six months ago.

Sometimes it looks like someone asking a thoughtful question, sharing a new idea, or encouraging another manager.

Sometimes it looks like quietly realizing, "I'm handling this differently than I would have a year ago."

Those moments reminded me that growth often happens so gradually we don't notice it until we stop and look back.

Somehow, we're already halfway through 2026.

When I was younger, adults would tell me that time speeds up as you get older. I smiled politely and figured they were exaggerating. Looking back, I think they were trying to prepare us for how quickly ordinary days become treasured memories.

Before we rush into July, I'd love to invite you to do something we don't always make time for.

Pause.

Take a deep breath.

Look back before you look ahead.

The middle of the year is a beautiful opportunity to reflect on where you've been, celebrate how you've grown, release what no longer serves you, and step into the second half of the year with renewed purpose.

So grab your journal, pour another cup of coffee, and spend a few quiet minutes reflecting with me.

Mid-Year Reflection

What has this season taught you about yourself, your leadership, or your priorities?

Maybe you've learned something about your leadership.

Maybe you've learned something about your priorities.

Maybe you've discovered you are stronger than you realized.

Write down three lessons you want to carry into the second half of the year.

One reminder I keep coming back to is this:

You do not have to lead loudly to lead well.

Quiet leadership matters.

Steady leadership matters.

Faithful leadership matters.

Now ask yourself:

What kind of leader do I want to become over the next six months?

Choose one word to guide this next season.

Then write down one small action you can take this week that reflects that word.

As you finish reflecting, remember this:

You made it through the first half of the year.

Maybe there were victories you celebrated.

Maybe there were challenges you never expected.

Through all of it, you kept showing up.

Honor the growth.

Give yourself grace.

Carry the lessons with you.

Then step into the second half of the year with confidence, knowing that small, faithful steps have a way of shaping remarkable leaders over time.

Growing Good

Growth often happens in ordinary moments, and July gives us a few fun opportunities to create those moments with the people around us.

1. July 11 is both Free Slurpee Day and National Blueberry Muffin Day. Pick up a blueberry muffin for a neighbor, coworker, or friend. If a quieter morning sounds more your speed, invite someone over for coffee and a muffin. Some of the best conversations happen around a simple table. Here's one of my favorite healthier blueberry muffin recipes.

2. July 14 is National Mac and Cheese Day Whether you make your family's favorite recipe or try a new one, comfort food has a way of bringing people together. Invite someone to lunch, surprise your family with a favorite meal, or simply enjoy a bowl while catching up with someone you haven't talked to in a while. I'd love to know... what's your favorite kind of mac and cheese?

Rachel Recommends

Here are two things making these hot Texas summer days a little more enjoyable.

1. ​Dr. Tichenor's Peppermint Mouthwash Concentrate- This has become my favorite trick for treating mosquito bites and chigger bites. The cooling peppermint feels amazing after spending time outside.
2. ​Mojo's Coffee- Our local coffee shop makes an iced green tea with peppermint and coconut that is incredibly refreshing. If you're looking for a fun summer treat, this one has my vote.

Freebies!

If today's reflection stirred something in you, I'd love to share a resource I created for you.

The Sunrise Shift Journal is a simple one-page guided journal designed to help you reflect on where you've been and step into the second half of the year with greater clarity and intention.

And if you're looking for a little extra encouragement, I'd love for you to join the Play & Appreciation Wellness Challenge, which begins next week.

Sometimes the healthiest thing we can do is make space for joy, laughter, connection, and gratitude. I'd love for you to be part of it.

One Last Thought

We spend so much time wondering if we're doing enough that we sometimes miss how much we've already grown.

The woman you are today knows things the woman you were in January couldn't have imagined.

Celebrate that.

Then keep taking the next faithful step.

I'll be cheering you on.

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