by Anastasia Fermin, Sunshima blog writer
In a similar fashion to New Year Resolutions, some people prefer to set goals at the start of each season. Like the start of a new year, a new season brings with it, opportunities and activities that you can only get done at certain times of the year. With summer wrapping up, it’s a great time to set your Autumn goals and prepare for the months ahead.
Start with short-term goals
There are many benefits to setting short-term goals. They are more achievable in a shorter space of time and can help you get a lot of groundwork done for bigger goals. You can break up your larger goals into segments to be accomplished weekly, monthly or seasonally. Setting goals in this way also keeps you from becoming overwhelmed and have a more realistic approach to long term dreams.
Turn over a new leaf
Setting your goals at the start of Autumn is a great opportunity to turn over a new leaf and change your life. It also helps that Autumn is a season of change and transition. Just like the trees shedding their leaves, so you too can shed old habits, thoughts and ideas that no longer serve you. Think about what you want to improve in your life and what you can do to make a positive change.
Make time for self-care
It’s all well and good to set goals that help you to further your career, education or family life, but don’t neglect self-care. Self-care can be translated into many forms, from making a goal to cook healthier meals, to becoming more active and adding exercise into your routine. Set a goal that enables you to relax, have fun and enjoy the season.
Don’t forget to congratulate yourself
Accomplishing your goals is more motivating when you set an incentive. It also helps you to stay on track and feel encouraged to get your tasks done. For example, choose your favourite Autumn activities and use them as rewards for accomplishing your weekly goals. This means that you can look forward to the weekends to claim your prize and set the pace for the next week.
Use festive stationery
Using Autumn themed planners and stationery to write down your goals sets the mood for the season. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing but they also raise your spirits and brighten your day. Using a planner also makes it easier to stay organised and you can actually be more productive.
Make a habit of goal setting
Goals do not always have to be lofty or spectacular. You can start by choosing simple goals that are easy to fit into your day such as reading a book for 10 minutes daily. If you struggled all year with not achieving your New Year resolutions, you have the Autumn to try again and do it smarter. Goal setting on a seasonal basis may work better for you if you are easily demotivated or distracted. Make it a habit and see what you can accomplish!