Summer is all about relaxing your regular routine just a little. We enjoy later bedtimes and leisurely mornings, barbequing, camping, swimming, boating, and being outdoors. The power of routines is beneficial, so some people welcome the shift from a chaotic summer to more scheduled days. However, others find the change daunting. As hot, sunny days give way to cooler weather, these tips can help you make the shift in seasonal routines.
Tips to Cope with a Shift in Seasonal Routines
- List the things that you need to attend to. For example, those with children should check what they must do to prepare for school. Ensure you have all the school supplies you need, stock up on food for school lunches, and have adequate clothing and footwear for the fall and winter. The same thing goes for the adults, too!
- Prepare meals and snacks in advance. Prepare and freeze batches of muffins, hummus, soups, chilli, stews, and casseroles. Ideally, store them in portion-sized containers for quick lunches and snacks.
- Start small and focus on one thing at a time. It will help you avoid that overwhelming, out-of-control feeling. Ask your partner and kids to help – after all, it’s about them too.
- Update your calendars with upcoming activities. You can better prepare for what’s to come when you can see all the events and appointments at once.
- Declutter your space. Doing this can help you feel more organized and in control. Help the children organize their rooms. It will save you time looking for things on their behalf.
- Schedule transition time between the seasons. Jumping from the holidays right back into the school/work routine can be jarring. Instead, take a day or two and reflect on what was good about this summer. Then, think about what you are looking forward to in the fall.
- Keep having fun. The end of summer doesn’t mean the end of fun. In fact, you can continue the good feelings by scheduling dinners with friends or hiking with the family. Alternatively, plan some fall and winter holiday events so you’ll have something to look forward to.
A shift in seasonal routines can be challenging. However, if you take your time, gradually adjust, and set aside some time for fun, the change will be seamless.
Do you find the shift from summer to fall challenging? If so, I’d be glad to help you build organizational systems to help smooth the transition. Reach out, and let’s talk.