A Season for Appreciation and Renewal

Ways to lessen anxiety around new school years, start new projects and enjoy the beauty of nature?

I love fall . Here in the Northeast, it’s one of the most beautiful times of the year, when the leaves change around our neighborhoods. I am thankful that we have kids and grandkids to help us rake those leaves that fall from the colorful trees and fill up our yards!??

There are also weekend getaways, depending on where you are, that entail going to watch the beauty of those trees turning vibrant colors . And for some, taking that all in requires sipping a pumpkin spice drink, and taking in all the wonderful stimulating flavors and smells of fall.?

So many take a different, relaxing kind of breath during the summer. August is traditionally a slow time, particularly in Europe, where people often take time off. Likewise, many families take their summer vacations during this month, catching a break before the return of September and the onset of fall, work, and school.

Confronting autumnal anxieties

I’ve heard from many who have a sense of anxiety and nervousness around this time as things get hectic, and we return full throttle to work and school. Connectivity Council member and clinical psychologist, Dr. Chloe Carmichael, wrote a book titled Nervous Energy: Harnessing the Power of Your Anxiety . I wanted to share some of her insights with you.?

In her book, Dr. Chloe outlined nine tools that can help you harness your nervous energy to live a more productive and fulfilling life. I asked her to elaborate on the psychology around the beginning of fall, what the change in season means, and how it might affect us in a positive way.?

“Each year brings that sense that school is starting, a new beginning, despite how old we are.?Every new generation experiences this, and every older generation recalls this time of year. We remember those days of back-to-school shopping, polishing up our school supplies, sharpening our pencils, and the newness each fall brought with a new grade, or a new year at college,” Dr. Chloe pointed out.

Dr. Chloe added that’s why for many of us, fall is a reminder of new beginnings, particularly if we have children who are starting new grades, attending new schools, or embarking on their college years. It’s an annual renewal for so many.

“However, it can be a nerve-wracking time, not only for adults who are diving back into longer hours at work after a summer that might have been more laid back, but also for kids who are facing the newness of another school year. Equally, there’s lots of anticipation and preparation for adult parents to get their kids ready for the school year. It’s advantageous to have nervous energy, because you can use that as a source of stimulation, and productivity.

“It’s also great to relax, and take the time to get away, and marvel at nature’s beauty during autumn. For many of us, it’s the last time we’re able to be outside for an extended period before winter sets in and keeps us all inside. And being outside and witnessing nature’s season change is a great way to appreciate the world around you.?

“And, because we’re trying to take advantage of spending those final days outdoors as the year comes to a close, many use their nervous energy to take on new projects during fall,” Dr. Chloe continued. “Fall marks the beginning of new endeavors, particularly as winter approaches, and we are able to continue to work on those projects indoors.”

Celebrating fall harvest

Fall means harvest time: first peaches, then pears, and grapes.??The Harry & David harvest team , for example, works tirelessly each year to pick roughly 600 tons of pears... per day.

Thus, it seems that fall always comes back to nature and growth in some way. We are still very much tied to the seasons. Minor seasonal changes can have profound impacts on nature and on us personally.?It is amazing how the first day of September rolls around and there is suddenly a chill in the air. Then, leaves turn a brilliant color and provide a respite for some of the nervous anxiety that comes with fall. And let’s not forget about the delicious fruit, like pears, that are harvested each fall.?

"In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life. It goes on." -Robert Frost

Have a happy and productive fall, and if you get a chance, take a minute to admire nature’s gift of trees splendidly shedding their colorful leaves.?

Boss's Day, Oct. 16, is almost here. Many of us have been fortunate enough to have had bosses who were special mentors and provided the support we needed in our professional journeys. Use your power to remind your boss, current or previous, how much you enjoy working for them and how they contribute to your success. Think about making a tribute video, have a virtual potluck lunch, or all sign a team card. However you choose to express it, you have the power to change how people feel, and you can do so by giving your boss some recognition this Boss's Day.?

PPS. I was honored to be featured among some of the most respected and talented global leaders in the latest issue of LEADERS magazine. Check out page 26, where I shared insights on New York's path to post-pandemic recovery, my thoughts on leadership success, and tips for young professionals embarking on their careers. Click here (LEADERS Magazine October, November, December 2021 Volume 44, Number 4).