Dear Empowered Reader,
As we transition into fall, there's a natural shift in energy and rhythm. The days of summer give way to a more structured routine as the school year begins, even those of us without children are impacted by the changing schedules of friends, family, and
colleagues. This period is an excellent opportunity to reset, recharge, and create sustainable daily habits that will carry us through the season with vitality and balance.
I decided to focus this newsletter on daily habits. Why focus on daily habits? Daily habits are the foundation of our overall well-being. They are the small, consistent actions we take each day that contribute to our physical, mental, and emotional health. As we
prepare to enter the fall season, it's essential to establish routines that align with the season's demands and rhythms. In the last few newsletters I mentioned how to enjoy the last weeks of summer and learning something new, this newsletter prepares us for fall. Whether it's adjusting your sleep schedule, incorporating seasonal foods into your diet, or finding time for reflection and goal-setting, these habits can help you stay grounded and energized. This fall, I’ve decided to focus on incorporating more mindfulness into my daily routine. I noticed that my mornings often felt rushed and stressful, which set a negative tone for the rest of the day. By committing to just five minutes of deep breathing or meditation
each morning, I’ve been able to start my day with a clearer mind and a more positive outlook.
Reflection Question: - What small change could you make in your morning routine that would have a positive impact on your day?
This leads to building daily habits. How do we build daily habits? The key to creating sustainable habits is to start small. Instead of overhauling your entire routine, focus on one or two areas where you'd like to see improvement. For example, if you want to prioritize your morning routine, start by
waking up 15 minutes earlier to allow time for a short meditation or a quick stretch. Over time, these small changes will become second nature, making it easier to build on them. Begin with a morning habit, like drinking a glass of water right after waking up. This seemingly small action can set a positive tone for the rest of your day and lead to further healthy choices. A few years ago when a friend wanted to increase their physical activity but struggled to find the time. I suggested we walk together by taking a 10-minute walk during our lunch break. It seemed insignificant at first, but as it became part of their routine, they
found themselves gradually increasing the time and eventually incorporating longer walks and other forms of exercise into their week.
Reflection Question: - What is one small, manageable habit you can introduce this fall to improve your well-being?
You have decided your habit now what? It's time to track your progress this will help you to stay motivated. Tracking your progress is a powerful tool for maintaining motivation. Whether you use a journal, an app, or a simple checklist, documenting your habits can help you stay accountable and see how far you've come. As you track your progress, you'll also identify
patterns and make adjustments as needed. Every once in awhile review your checklists to see how far you have come! Example: Create a habit tracker that includes your daily goals, such as exercise, mindfulness, hydration, and sleep. Review your progress weekly to celebrate your successes and make any necessary adjustments. I’ve found that using a simple habit-tracking journal has made a huge difference in sticking to my new routines. By checking off my daily habits, like drinking enough water or getting outside for fresh air, I feel a sense of accomplishment that motivates me to keep
going, even on tough days.
Reflection Question: - How can you track your progress to stay motivated and accountable for your new habits?
Fall is a season of change and preparation, making it an ideal time to establish new habits. The cooling temperatures and shorter days naturally encourage us to slow down and focus inward. Use this seasonal energy to your advantage by creating routines that reflect
the fall's themes of grounding and balance. Incorporate seasonal activities like walks in the crisp autumn air, enjoying warm, nourishing meals, or practicing gratitude as the year winds down. These habits can help you feel more connected to the season and your well-being. Every fall, I make it a point to spend time outdoors, enjoying the changing colors and cooler temperatures. This simple habit of connecting with nature not only boosts my mood but also reminds me to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the season. It’s become a
grounding practice that I look forward to each year.
Reflection Question: - What seasonal activity can you incorporate into your routine this fall to help you feel more grounded and connected?
Even if you don’t have kids heading back to school, the fall can be a time for your own "new beginning." Use this time to reset your routines, set new goals, and focus on personal growth. Whether it’s learning a new skill, deepening your self-care practices,
or organizing your home, the start of the school year can be a powerful motivator for positive change.
Set a "back-to-school" goal for yourself, such as completing a course, reading a book, or decluttering a space in your home. Approach it with the same enthusiasm and commitment that students bring to the new school year.
Last fall, I decided to take a cooking class as my "back-to-school" challenge. It was something I’d always wanted to do but never made time for. Not only did it improve my cooking skills, but it also brought a new sense of creativity and joy into my daily
life. It reminded me that it’s never too late to learn and grow.
Reflection Question: - What is one "back-to-school" goal you can set for yourself this fall, and how will it contribute to your personal growth?
Staying motivated is often the biggest challenge when building new habits. Celebrate your small wins along the way to keep your momentum going. Acknowledge your efforts, no matter how minor they may seem, and remind yourself of the long-term benefits of your new
routines. Treat yourself to a small reward after completing a week of your new routine, such as a relaxing bath, a favorite snack, or a movie night. These rewards reinforce the positive behavior and make the process enjoyable.
I’ve learned that celebrating small wins is crucial to maintaining motivation. For example, when I successfully stick to completing a goal, I reward myself with a favorite treat or a relaxing evening with a good book. These small rewards make the process enjoyable and
remind me of the progress I’m making.
Reflection Question: - How can you celebrate your small wins to stay motivated on your wellness journey this fall?
By recharging your routine this fall, you're setting the stage for a season of wellness and balance. Remember, the goal is not to create the perfect routine but to build habits that support your well-being and can be sustained over time. As you embrace these new
habits, you'll find yourself better equipped to handle the changes and challenges that come with the season.
Take Care, Dear Reader, Julie Founder, Empower Possible | 
