The Season of Fall…
The first Moving Forward Podcast of August was all about the change of the calendar and the season and the Back to School vibe, with kids going back to school in August in the southern states. Back to school for me always feels like a fresh start, a starting over, a turning of the page, and a chance to review, reflect, reset, and plan. I remember being little and going back to school shopping and the excitement of the first day of school outfit, but especially the new school supplies. A new notebook, calendar, and good pen still makes me happy and hopeful. I have always thought of August and back to school as another New Year, but January 1st always gets all the glory.
I was just listening to Mel Robbins Podcast and she was talking about the same thing for September, the time the kids go back to school in the northern states. I would just like to point out that Mel and I agree on this and both did a podcast on it - just saying, lol. She also shared a study done on New Year’s Eve goals and that it takes about 3.75 months for people to reach their goal. Hmmmm….How much time is left in the year from September? You will start to see “End the Year Strong” challenges and “The Last 90 Days challenges.” Why? Because it’s the season for it.
The fall season brings a sense of transition, reflection, and preparation, aligning with the natural cycles of change. As the leaves turn color and the air becomes crisper, there’s a natural reminder that life too is constantly shifting. This time of year encourages us to let go of what no longer serves us, much like trees shedding their leaves in preparation for winter. It’s a season to pause, take stock, and make space for new growth.
Fall is also a period of harvest, both in nature and in life. It’s a time to reflect on the efforts we’ve put in throughout the year and to reap the rewards. The work we’ve done, the seeds we’ve planted—whether in relationships, career, or personal growth—now show their fruits. This season invites us to acknowledge our accomplishments and think about what we want to continue nurturing as we move forward.
As the pace of nature slows, fall brings a sense of introspection. The shorter days and cooler evenings naturally encourage us to look inward, to reflect on the lessons we’ve learned and the path ahead. It’s a time to evaluate where we are in life, how we’ve grown, and where we want to go. Activities like journaling, meditation, or simply taking quiet walks can deepen this sense of reflection.
There’s also a sense of preparation in the fall, a feeling of wrapping things up and getting ready for the challenges of winter. It’s a time to plan, to organize, and to ensure that we’re equipped for the months ahead. This preparation doesn’t just apply to practical matters, but also to our emotional and mental well-being. As we look toward the future, it’s important to focus on self-care and ensure that we’re rested and ready for whatever may come.
Amidst all of this, fall is a season of gratitude. With the harvest comes a sense of abundance, a time to be thankful for the experiences, people, and opportunities that have shaped our lives. Practicing gratitude during this season—whether through small acts of kindness or simply acknowledging the good around us—deepens our connection to the themes of fall: change, reflection, and the completion of cycles. It’s a powerful time to align with the rhythm of life and embrace the transformation the season brings.