Let’s be completely honest right from the start. Autumn is not my favourite season. While the rest of the world seems to collectively lose its mind over pumpkin spice lattes, chunky knit sweaters, and crisp morning air, I am usually standing on the sidelines mentally and physically preparing myself for the cold months ahead. I have never been one of those people who naturally relishes the fading light or the chill in the air. For a long time, the arrival of fall felt less like a cozy invitation and more like an unwelcome reminder that summer was slipping through my fingers.
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Autumn Affirmations for a Period of Transition
But life has a funny way of teaching us patience, and perspective changes the longer we stick around. In the past few years, I have been working hard on shifting my mindset. Instead of bracing myself against the seasonal change, I’m learning to try to accept it and find things to do such as travel or go camping in the fall months too. I am trying to view autumn not as an ending, but as a crucial transition space. It is a bridge between the vibrant, high-speed energy of summer and the joy of winter skiing. And honestly? There is something quietly powerful about learning to move with grace rather than resistance.
Transitions
Transition spaces are inherently uncomfortable. They ask us to let go of what was and adjust to what is coming, often without giving us a clear roadmap. But nature does not rush its transitions, and neither should we. When I look out at the changing leaves now, I am trying to see them less as a symbol of decay and more as an act of release. The trees are simply letting go of what they no longer need to carry so they can rest, recharge, and prepare for new growth down the line.
That is a lesson I desperately need in my own life. Autumn invites us to slow down our internal pace, even when our to-do lists try to convince us otherwise. It encourages us to check in with ourselves, honor our boundaries, and reflect on the past months with kindness. We do not have to love every single aspect of a season to find value in the lessons it brings.
Discovering Hygge in Copenhagen
Two years ago we discovered Copenhagen and hygge and have started using that here during the fall months. Believe me it helps. I keep the pool open all the way until Thanksgiving when possible and bring blankets outside if needed so I can still sit outdoors. It’s really partly about being outside for me anyways. When it gets colder and we shift more to indoors that makes me feel a bit less joy so I extend the length of time that summer transitions to fall. It works.
Gentle Reminders for the Season
If you, like me, struggle with the transition sometimes intentional thoughts and mantras help.
Here are a few for this season:
- I give myself permission to slow down and match the rhythm of the season.
- Change is a natural part of the journey and I move through it with grace.
- I let go of what no longer serves me trusting that rest is productive too.
- There is beauty and comfort in every single season of the year.
Learning to accept autumn has taught me that we don’t have to force enthusiasm for things that don’t come naturally to us. Acceptance is much quieter than enthusiasm; it simply sounds like breathing out, lowering your shoulders, and saying, Okay, we are here. Let’s see what this space has to teach us.
Moving with Intention and Calm
To help us both navigate this transitional time with a bit more intention and calm, I put together a free printable featuring these autumn affirmations. You can easily print it out, stick it on your fridge, or tuck it into your planner as a gentle daily reminder that you don’t have to love the cold to find peace in the transition. Grab your copy below and let’s get through this season together.
Download these here:
Don’t Forget The Paper and Supplies:
Don’t forget to order paper – HP Printer Paper and also be sure to use a good printer. This Epson Eco Tank Printer is amazing. It saves ink and money like nobody’s business. If you want these to last you might also buy an affordable laminator. Scotch PRO Thermal Laminator is excellent. Highly recommend. And it doesn’t take up much space in your family room or your home office.
