The Autumnal Reset

Lifting your spirits as the days get shorter and the wind gets chillier can feel like a tall order. But what if we swap the sigh for a smile? By gently letting go of the summer we had and welcoming the autumn ahead without judgement, we might just find a little extra spring in our step!

From cold to cozy

It's the first meteorological day of autumn. How does that feel to you?

Perhaps you're feeling uplifted and energised, seeing this as a time for a fresh start. Maybe you're making a list of things you want to achieve over the next few months, setting new targets and re-establishing healthy working practices you may have let slip during the quieter summer period.

Alternatively, you may feel a heaviness, a drop in energy at the thought of the return of windy, wet days and shorter daylight hours. Even though most of us work over the summer, it can still feel like a more relaxed pace. Clients go on holiday, colleagues are away, and we enjoy lunch outdoors. Whatever our relationship with the change in seasons, we don’t leave that feeling at the office door; we bring it with us as we look to the months ahead.

Here are some suggestions on how you can transition back into your routine and embrace the new season.

Bring the Holiday with You

It can feel like a jolt to go from holiday mode back to your daily routine. So, find small ways to incorporate a little of that relaxed, holiday feeling into your workday. Perhaps you could listen to a playlist from your trip, use a souvenir as a desk decoration, or even save a couple of photos from your travels as your screensaver, just to ease the transition.

Your Autumnal Workspace

Make your desk a warm and inviting space for the new season. Brew your favourite tea or coffee in a mug you love, pop on a warm jumper, and add a small pot plant or a photo that reminds you of a favourite place. This simple act reclaims your space and makes it a comforting haven for the months ahead.

The "Back to School" Plan

Borrow from the collective memory of new stationery and fresh starts. Tomorrow morning, allow yourself to spend 30 minutes tidying your workspace, writing a simple to-do list, and setting a few achievable goals for the week. This mirrors the sense of order and new beginnings from school days.

A Moment to Pause

It's easy to get absorbed in work, particularly when the sum isn’t beckoning, but taking a proper break is crucial. Step outside for just a few minutes, popping your coat on to embrace the elements. Tune in and notice the world around you, perhaps the leaves are turning from green to gold, the air is cooler, or the light is changing. This simple, mindful pause allows you to connect with the season and return to your desk feeling refreshed.

The Mind-Body Connection

A smooth transition isn't just about scheduling; it's also about managing your mindset during a seasonal shift. This is where mindfulness can help.

Mindfulness is a useful tool for coping with change. It's about observing feelings without letting them take over, whether it's the "back to work blues" or the sadness of summer's end. You can practise a simple exercise like taking a few minutes to be present with the warmth of a mug of tea or focusing on the sound of the rain outside your window.

By acknowledging the shift and consciously adopting a few simple strategies, you can make the transition into autumn a smoother, more positive experience.

If you're interested in learning more about how to bring these tools into your professional life, my mindfulness at work courses offer practical guidance on managing stress and improving focus in the workplace. Contact me to find out more here