As the green of summer gives way to amber, gold, and crimson, nature reminds us of one of life’s few constants: change. Day by day leaves fall to the ground, a wonderful reminder of shedding off the old and getting ready for new beginnings. Autumn is full of wonderful opportunities to refresh routines, reflect, and refocus.
This season, take a cue from nature: embrace change.
A Season that Sparks Renewal
Researchers describe temporal landmarks—like the start of a new month, season, or major life milestones, as moments that naturally motivate us to reset and re-evaluate our goals. Psychologists refer to this as the “fresh start effect”, where these natural turning points help us separate from the past and approach our goals with renewed enthusiasm.
When Autumn arrives, it’s no wonder that we feel the pull to slow down, reassess, and set new intentions before the bustle of the holiday season.
Mindsets: Fixed vs. Growth
- A fixed mindset views traits (like intelligence, talent) as static and unchangeable.
- A growth mindset coined by psychologist Carol Dweck—refers to the belief that our abilities and intelligence can develop through effort, feedback, and persistence. shows that embracing a growth mindset encourages resilience, learning from challenges, and better long-term outcomes.
Cultivating a growth mindset is vital in not being overly complacent in life. It increases motivation, fulfillment, and resilience, at work and at home. By viewing challenges as learning opportunities, we shift from “I can’t do this” to “I can’t do this yet.”
Cultivating Growth as the Leaves Change
Let’s take inspiration from nature’s transformation this season. Here are some ways to align your mindset with cultivating meaningful growth- professionally and personally.
Let Go and Replant
Just as trees release their leaves, consider what habits or thought patterns you’re ready to let go of. Maybe it’s self-control, self-doubt, or overcommitment. Once you’ve identified what is holding you back from thriving, “replant” by setting new intentions and habits in place.
Autumn Strolls
Take slow walks outside. Notice the crunching of leaves under your feet, the colors and shapes of the leaves, and cherish the cool breeze in the air. These sensory details help to ground your mind in the present and reduce stress while also improving focus. These benefits are supported by research on nature-based mindfulness.
Check out these certified Forest Therapy trails that are specifically curated paths that invite you to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with the natural world.
Reflect and Reset
Hobbies such as journaling and scrapbooking are great ways to reflect on past seasons and write out aspirations for the season ahead. Reflection strengthens self-awareness and reinforces progress, even in subtle ways.
Leaning Into Discomfort
Change is rarely comfortable and that’s okay. When we accept that changes in life are inevitable, it relieves a lot of that tension and resistance that tends to be stirred up. It is important to recognize that discomfort is a part of learning patience and resilience. When you feel tension—perhaps stress, indecision, or restlessness—ask: What is this inviting me to learn or change?
From Transition to Transformation
Autumn is nature’s reminder that change is not loss, it’s renewal. As the leaves turn, let your mindset shift too. Release what is making you stagnant, remain mindful through the transition, and celebrate your growth—no matter how gradual it feels.
