By: Dr. Phyllis Bivins-Hudson
July offers another beautiful opportunity to pause and reflect. School is out, work schedules shift, and vacation plans are either underway or on the horizon. It’s a natural time to exhale. But even amid relaxation, it’s worth taking a moment to look ahead.
Before we know it, “back to business” will be in full swing. This month, while you have a bit of breathing room, take a moment to reflect on what the year has brought so far and how you can continue moving forward with purpose. Use this time to reflect on your Grows, Glows, and Bows—the progress, the highlights, and the meaningful extras that have shaped your journey.
GROWS
Where were you in January? What goals did you set, promises did you make, or new ideas did you want to pursue?
Have you seen progress, or are you feeling stuck? Wherever you are, give yourself grace. Growth isn’t always big or flashy. Even small steps count. Maybe you made a plan and stuck to most of it. That’s a win.
As you look at your progress, acknowledge how far you’ve come. Those little wins stack up. And by December, you may be surprised just how much you’ve accomplished.
GLOWS
Now this one’s trickier. We often shy away from celebrating ourselves. We've been taught that it’s boastful to speak of our successes, but let’s challenge that mindset.
When others shine, we cheer them on. So why not extend that same kindness to ourselves? If you don’t speak for your work, who will? No one understands the effort, the intention, or the impact like you do.
Your glow doesn’t have to be loud, it just has to be true. Honor your contributions. Let others see your light. It might inspire someone or open a door you didn’t even know existed.
BOWS
Your “bows” are the flourishes—the beautiful, often unnoticed, details you bring to your life and work. These are the times you showed up when you didn’t have to. The extra care, the thoughtful gesture, the quiet support.
They’re the finishing touches that make your journey richer, more joyful, and more meaningful, not just for you, but for everyone in your circle. These little bonuses are the sparkles that decorate your days and uplift others.
As you move through July, take a moment to reflect on your journey since January. You’ve done more than you think. Be kind to yourself. Give yourself grace.
And keep moving through the next five months with purpose: Keep growing. Keep glowing. Keep adding those beautiful bows.
Until next time—Keep Flying on Your Own Wings.