Spring Up, Shine Through the Summer in Confidence

By Dr. V. Brooks Dunbar and Gift Okechukwu

Spring is on its way out, and summer is here. Some people may view it as just the normal shift in weather, but this goes beyond; it is also a mindset-shift moment. A change in pace, approach and energy.

Whether you are a student, a working professional, or a business owner, this season brings with it a unique opportunity: the chance to reimagine with confidence and rise to activate success.

For Students: Reflect

The end of the school year often feels like a finish line. But it is actually a checkpoint. Final exams, year-end projects, and graduation ceremonies are not just about what you have completed—they are a reflection of how far you have come and accomplished.

Take time to ask yourself:

• What challenged me this spring?

• What strengths did I develop?

• What areas still need growth?

  
  

Summer is your space to explore. Whether you’re beginning an internship, taking on a job, or simply resting and resetting, this is your time to apply what you have learned. Confidence is not about having all the answers—it is about believing in your ability to grow through new experiences.

For Professionals and Business Owners: Clear the Clutter, Rebuild with Intention

Spring is often a busy season that is sometimes packed with pressure—quarter-end goals, performance reviews, packed calendars, and nonstop decision-making. As summer begins, there is a natural shift. The pace softens and often comes with an opportunity to take a step back, evaluate what’s working, and make more intentional moves.

As a Professional/Business Owner, Ask yourself:

• What recurring tasks or habits are draining my time without delivering real results? It is time to stop confusing busyness with progress. Identify the activities that look productive but don’t move you closer to your goals.

  
  

• Where am I saying yes out of habit, fear, or obligation? Consider which projects, clients, or collaborations no longer reflect your purpose or values. As a confident business owner, you do not have any business with projects or people who do not align with your dreams.

  
  

• Which relationships or systems in my business need to evolve or end to support long-term growth?

  Success emanates from structure and support. Don’t be afraid to redesign your workflow.

  
  

• What skills, strengths, or insights do I already have that I’m underusing?

  You might be sitting on untapped value. Leverage what you’ve mastered to create new opportunities or expand your impact.

  Define your version of seasonal success. Maybe it’s increased revenue, but maybe it’s also clarity, confidence, consistency, or peace.

  
  

Confidence grows when your actions align with your values. Let this season be a fresh start grounded in self-awareness and purpose.

Confidence Needs a Map

There is no time better than now to strategize for the future. Confidence is not just a feeling—it is direction. A clear map to guide your decisions and anchor your actions.

Confidence thrives in movement, not in waiting. The key is to move with intention.

Step Into Summer with Confidence

This season is not just about longer days or warmer weather. It’s about stepping forward with clarity, boldness, confidence, and trust in your growth.

Let the energy of summer remind you: you are allowed to reset and realign.