As we near the end of September, there are two things on my mind: Making sure someone wakes up Billy Joe Armstrong and avoiding that pesky seasonal slump.
No need to fear! I have already sent a plethora of DMs to the Green Day Instagram account, and I have compiled this lovely little list of some great ways to stay present, centered, and positive this fall season!
1 | Make Time For Nature!
Fall brings about some of the loveliest colors and plant growth all around the country, and yes, I’m also talking to you, Florida! There are so many great finds to discover in nature this fall season, so be sure to get outside for a few minutes each day to enjoy the fresh air.
Here’s a shot of my friend Rebecca and I adventuring in a local nature preserve. On Sunday mornings, we adventure into parks where we have never been and take our time walking, talking, and photographing the foliage.
During the week, listening to a podcast or audiobook while taking a long walk after work can be the perfect cure to whatever quarter-end crisis you endured the hours before.
When it comes to weekends, I’m a picnic type of gal. My favorite activity is ordering takeout from my favorite local spot and laying out in the park to enjoy my meal.
2 | Write Letters to your Friends and Family
Fall can get most people down, not just you, so get over yourself. Just kidding, I love and support you. But make sure that part of your focus includes those around you and those you care about. I absolutely love it when anyone hand makes me even the most elementary greeting card, and in general, handmade and handwritten treasures show the value in your message.
Not to brag but…my greeting cards are the best.
If you’re feeling low, pick out a fun colored pen or marker and some cool stationery, and write a short letter to a friend or family member in a different state from you. My gifting pro tip is to scan through Facebook and compile an Excel sheet of all the birthdays and addresses of my loved ones so that I can be prepared to send a letter or gift whenever I feel like it or when a birthday comes around. I also frequently pick up those ridiculously large scrapbooking paper pads from Michaels whenever they’re on sale so that I can make a cool-looking card at a moment's notice!
3 | Take Time to Recognize Yourself Daily
I am a firm believer in goal setting. At the end of every day, I make a list for myself with a mix of what I would like to accomplish and what needs to be done the next day. I of course, also have a similar list for that week and also that month, but that’s just me and my extreme love of making lists AND checking them off when tasks are completed.
Whether you’re a fan of list-making or not, this simple tactic is a great way to let yourself know that you’re doing better than you thought pre-list. I have a dedicated notebook where I like to tell myself what I WILL do.
“I will make a delicious meal prep this week,” “I will continue to make a positive impact,” “I will keep a clean home and a healthy outlook!”
These simple statements are more than just an affirmation; they are self-validating and can really move you forward toward your goals.