After two years of pandemic life all we wanted was to speed up time. Here we are at the start of Fall and now I feel myself wishing that time would slow down. But when I have these feelings, I know the best way to improve my mood is to take some time and invest in myself.
When I say investing in myself, I do not mean I want to go out and blow my budget on a crazy shopping spree or dinner that I will only enjoy for a short period of time. I want to find curated ways that will help me grow in both the short and long term. Below I am sharing a few ways that I will be investing in myself this Fall to make sure that I am taking time to enjoy this season.
Spend time out in nature: I am incredibly lucky to live in an area full of Fall foliage. With the weather cooling down I want to spend as much time as I can each weekend hitting hiking trails or picnicking outside before the snow traps us inside (ask me how I really feel about winter)
Visit a farm or farmers market: This probably also falls into the category of spending time outside but when I mean hit the farm I want to encourage you to pick up some fresh fruits and veggies. People discount how much health and wealth play into one another. I love picking up some fresh produce where I know the farmers who grew everything and can trust that it was grown organically. In addition, I am willing to pay more for these items because of the amazing difference I feel when I consume them
Read a new book: Let’s be clear this will always be on my list. I am a huge book nerd and think every season calls for a new book. I think that reading fiction and non-fiction is a fantastic way to take a break from technology and everything going on around us. We can learn something new or even be transported too somewhere new.
In case you need some inspiration, here are a few suggestions
The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren
Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Get Out of Your Head by Jennie Allen
Begin Planning for Next Year: I know it sounds crazy to start planning this early, but you will be thankful that you did. Even if you just pick one area of your life. Ask yourself what you want your finances, home, or lifestyle to look like at the start of the New Year. What can you start doing now to help you get closer to living that life?
Practice Saying ‘No’: I have a full blog post coming out about this in the coming weeks because the biggest comment I get from clients about their spending habits is that they wish they said no to certain purchases or activities. I encourage you to try saying no at least one time this season to something that does not align with your goals.