Looking Ahead

This time of year signals change and opportunity.  Combines begin humming and trucks purr down the roads with their heavy loads of life-giving grain straining the axles.  The music of life is all around us.

Autumn is also the time of year when the days get markedly shorter and for some, a little melancholy can set in.  If you’ve ever had the seasonal blues, it’s not much fun.  Thankfully, there are things we can all do to ward off the blues.  Here are a few ideas:

• Keep a five minute journal- Doesn’t have to be fancy—I’m a fan of composite notebooks—however I’ve linked to one that I recommend here.
  • Each morning write down the following:
    • Three things you’re grateful for
    • Three things that would make today great
    • Three positive affirmations—keep it simple
  • Each evening write down the following:
    • Three amazing things that happened during the day
    • Three things that would have made the day better
    • Anything else you feel is important to note

• Spend time outside– A brief brisk walk will refresh you and provide you with a positive mood boost to the brain.
• Exercise- whether at home or in the gym.  Just get your body moving.
• Make plans- plan some fun things to do over the course of the fall and winter such as going to movies and dinners out with friends.  Join a book club. Host a party.  If time allows, plan a vacation.

Remember, if seasonal blues set in and linger, make seeing your doctor a priority.  And if you are unaffected but friends, loved ones, co-workers or clients seem to be struggling, be sure to encourage them to take steps to be proactive in taking charge of their mental health.  We all deserve to live our best lives and sometimes the best thing we can do for others is make sure we are changing our OWN lives for GOOD!