New Beginnings

 

“Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.”

This quote is one of my favorites from F. Scott Fitzgerald. Saying goodbye to summer is always bittersweet, although the fall is a perfect time for a fresh start! Most of us associate the New Year with a fresh start, but why not take a jump start to get back on track. Autumn means a shift in temperature, the leaves changing colors; and the opportunity to re-evaluate goals, interests, careers, hobbies, relationships and more. But how do we get out of “summer mode” and into accepting autumn?
1. Grieve the Loss of Summer: Try to squeeze in any last minute adventures while you can! Take time to look back and remember all of the fun events from the summer. Creating a scrapbook or collage is a fun way to reminisce while making a keepsake for the future.
2. Set Goals: The summer months can be very busy and it can be easy to lose sight of personal goals. Use the S.M.A.R.T. method to set new goals that are specific, measureable, achievable, relevant and timely. If you’re feeling stuck, check out the TED Talk, Fake it Till You Make it, by Amy Cuddy for a quick confidence boost!
3. Try New Things: There are plenty of fun fall activities to try in upstate NY such as apple picking, pumpkin carving, haunted houses and more! Check out something new or take a friend who has never been!
4. Self-Care: Anticipating the winter months and the holidays can be stressful, so it is best to proactive and implement positive self-care habits such as maintaining healthy sleep schedules, dieting and making time for hobbies, exercise and time with friends and family.

By: Melissa Major, MHC