Simplifying for the Summer

What if Quiet is More Potent?

My mind doesn't want to write this post, which is usually a good sign I'm onto something important.

Why I'm Simplifying This Summer

My heart knows I need a simpler summer on the horizon – one with more presence and less digital static. I'm craving a season where my screen time is intentionally focused: reserved for paid coaching clients, the valuable communities I invest in, and a curated list of email subscriptions.

Stepping Off the Content Hamster Wheel

My Instagram break has already begun. Interestingly, the feedback has been universally supportive, confirming that questioning the value of endless scrolling resonates with many. This break is part of a bigger step back from the hamster wheel of believing 'I should always be creating content.'

Don't get me wrong, I go through cycles where I love creating! Youtube is still promoting a video I made five years ago about processing emotions (who knew that one would take off?). But forcing content creation this summer would be a distraction from where my energy needs to be.

The Deeper Question: Visibility vs. Potency

Underneath this is the constant question: How can I best be of service? Parts of me are definitely wired to perform, teach, and be visible – they see 'quiet' as a failure to serve. It's taken some internal negotiation to honor their intentions while also exploring a different possibility: that perhaps less broad visibility right now could paradoxically lead to more potent, focused service where it's truly needed. These parts are understandably wary, but I feel called to explore this quieter path.

Channeling Energy Locally (Here in Ohio!)

Instead, I'm channeling that energy locally. This summer is about showing up in-person around Columbus, Ohio, and embracing what unfolds. Next week feels like a perfect start: I'll be giving a talk on growth mindset to 150 corporate people on a beautiful local farm. They'll all receive a hard copy of my book, and I'm grateful to be receiving my highest speaking fee yet – such an honor.

I'm excited to meet more people outside my usual psychology circles, like those in corporate and finance, who are curious about this work. I'll also be deepening my own meditative practices and offering local classes.

What This Means for "Growth with Caitlin"

This shift feels aligned for me. So, what does this mean for this Substack space called "Growth with Caitlin?" It will probably be pretty quiet. I'll still send emails about my paid offerings through Kit, a newsletter service that looks slightly different (and you're probably already subscribed there too).

What's on your horizon this summer?

Right now, I still have capacity to read and respond to everyone who replies. :)