Embracing The Fall Slump
As the vibrant energy of summer abruptly gives way to the gentle whispers of fall, I find myself caught in a peculiar dance with the changing seasons. Living in the Pacific Northwest, the sudden arrival of darkness and rain feels like a whiplash. All I want to do is snuggle up with a blanket and a good book, far away from the glow of a computer screen.
I've noticed I'm not alone in this. The world outside seems to echo our internal shifts, and it's natural to feel the dip in energy and motivation. The weight of current events can make things seem a bit hopeless, and it's okay to acknowledge this heaviness.
A friendly reminder:
So, here's a friendly reminder: give yourself permission. Give yourself permission to slow down, to feel tired without guilt, and to embrace the need for rest without reason. You're not a machine. You're not meant to produce 24/7. It's okay to need and want rest.
Navigating this time with grace is a lesson in itself. Recognizing this as a natural cycle, just like the changing seasons, can help you detach any identity you might be attaching to it. It doesn't make you a bad person or signify something wrong with you. It's just part of life.
shrink your to-do list
Here's a little trick I've learned: shrink your to-do list. Reprioritize what truly matters to you during this season. Ask yourself, how would you like to close out the year? What's one thing you want to achieve before the calendar flips?
Take time for self-reflection
During these transitions, I revisit my journals and goals set at the beginning of the year. This reflection helps me gain perspective not just on work but also on community and the way I want to spend my time outside of the office. It's an opportunity to reevaluate, reprioritize, and reinvigorate.
find joy in the little things
I've also found joy in making a list of things that make me happy during this season. This year, I'm learning how to crochet. I find comfort in preparing hearty stews, baking, and planning gifts for the upcoming holiday season.
interrupt your regular patterns
Another thing to do is interrupt your regular patterns. A change of scenery can work wonders. Consider taking your work to a cozy coffee shop (where I'm writing this email from) for the day or going for a walk in a different park during daylight hours.
Remember, it's okay to feel the fall slump. With time, I've learned that accepting it, embracing it, and allowing it to pass through without judgment can bring unexpected peace. So, snuggle up, read those books, indulge in your hobbies, and find solace in the rhythm of the season.
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