#101. How to Create a Summer Schedule That Honors Your Values—Not Just Your To-Do List
Struggling to create a summer schedule that actually works for your life—not just your clients’ requests? This post walks you through a mindset-first approach to summer scheduling, especially for speech-language pathologists juggling family logistics, shifting caseloads, and the guilt that comes with saying no. Learn how to build a schedule that reflects your values, not just your to-do list—and discover the key question that makes all the difference.
Feeling Overwhelmed by Summer Scheduling? You’re Not Alone
If the thought of updating your summer calendar makes your throat tighten, you’re in good company. Between shifting client needs, last-minute eval requests, and the nonstop shuffle of camp pickups and family logistics, it can feel like summer break brings anything but ease.
And if you’re a high-achieving SLP who prides herself on being flexible and accommodating? This time of year can feel especially murky.
"Am I being too accommodating? Or is this just how it has to be?"
Before you start saying yes to everything (and end up exhausted by July), let’s pause and walk through a new way to approach your summer schedule.
This is more than a calendar problem. It’s a permission problem.
Why Your Summer Schedule Feels So Hard
You’ve been trained to be accommodating. Maybe even praised for it.
You’re the one who picks up the slack, adds in the extra eval, says yes to that parent who just needs a quick favor.
But here’s what I tell my coaching clients:
Every yes without a boundary is a “maybe” you’ll resent later.
You have values, but no rules. And that’s costing you your peace.
Let’s change that.
Step 1: Start With Your Life, Not Your Sessions
Before you pencil in a single client, get clear on:
Your personal non-negotiables (camp pickups, downtime, appointments)
What flexibility actually looks like for you
The kind of summer schedule you want (4-day weeks? Short Fridays?)
Take a blank calendar and block those life pieces out first.
This signals to your brain: I matter too.
"When your calendar only honors other people’s needs, it will always feel like your life is on borrowed time."
Step 2: Define Your Summer Work Boundaries
Once your non-negotiables are in place, decide:
What hours you’re available for sessions
What days you won’t work (and won’t feel guilty about it)
How much buffer time you need to avoid burnout
Write it down. This is your summer schedule blueprint.
And if the idea of holding firm to those boundaries makes you nervous? That’s normal. Most of us were never taught how to say no without spiraling.
Step 3: Say No Without the Spiral
Try these boundary-setting scripts:
“I’d love to make that work, but my schedule is full during that time. Here are some alternatives.”
“My summer hours are set to support family logistics, so I’m unable to make that shift. Thank you for understanding.”
These are clear. Kind. And non-negotiable.
Remember: The kids you serve deserve a regulated, resourced SLP—not a burned-out, reactive one.
Let’s Create a Schedule That Supports Your Life
If this message resonates, here’s your next step:
Don’t buy another planner. You don’t need a new tool. You need a new strategy.
Book a free consult, and I’ll help you:
Clarify your values
Define your non-negotiables
Build a summer (or year-round) schedule that actually works
Because you are allowed to protect your time, your energy, and your peace. Especially in the summer.