As summer finally comes to a close, despite the warm weather we’ve been sporadically experiencing over the past month, it’s time to fully adjust to a fall mindset. Complete with falling leaves, warm drinks and more, fall is full of tactics to get back into the swing of things. Although some of these ideas may seem counterproductive, it is important to not go overboard with enjoying these activities and focus on the end goal.
- Go to a coffee shop
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This is the perfect place to go to in the fall if you want to be productive doing work while also feeling like the main character. I don’t know if it’s just me, but I love looking mysterious in public places where you’re probably never going to see those people again.
If you want to go even further in becoming the ultimate autumn girl, you can get a pumpkin spice latte, an apple cider or anything off of a fall menu. Just put in your earbuds, turn on some lo-fi music and get to work!
- TAKE A BREAK WITH A NATURE WALK
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When I start to feel overworked or I hit a rut in my studies, it’s really important to give myself a break. This is especially because when I get into that mindset, I spend a lot of countless hours on my phone. Fall is the ideal time to go outside in my honest opinion.
On the days when the temperature is in the 50s or 60s, I could be outside all the time. So, when I need a break, I go outside. Whether that’s to walk around campus or find a quiet place to sit for 20 or so minutes, it really helps me clear my head.
It’s also amazing how much slower time moves when you’re off of your phone. I give myself time to ground myself and rationalize my plans and realize only about 15 minutes have passed. Whereas on my phone, I think I’ve been on it for 10 minutes when it’s actually triple that.
Original photo by Vrinda Agarwal - WATCH ONE EPISODE OF “GILMORE GIRLS”
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This is one of the instances from earlier where I implore you to control yourself! You don’t want one episode to turn into five, regardless of cliffhangers or anything else. If work becomes too much, turn on Netflix and play one episode of “Gilmore Girls.” The episodes are already a little over 40 minutes, so adding more episodes will make your procrastination situation worse.
I treat watching one episode of a show as a reset before getting back into doing schoolwork. This staple fall show will bring you the perfect vibes to keep up with your academic girl autumn.
Warner Bros. Television - LISTEN TO “RED” OR “EVERMORE” BY TAYLOR SWIFT
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These are the ultimate fall albums. When I listen to music while I’m struggling with procrastination, I play it off of my phone. Then, I put my phone out of reach from me because otherwise, I’ll just go back on it again.
Music is a really great way to get back into the swing of things and stay focused on the tasks at hand. By listening to either of these albums, you’ll be able to transport yourself to an autumn wonderland (pun intended) and be able to focus on your work while listening to some absolutely amazing songs.
- make your study space fall-themed
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When I need extra motivation, a tidied-up desk somehow always does the trick. By correlating your desk with the season or holidays around that time, it makes you feel that much more festive and cozy that you become motivated to finish your work.
For me, I have pumpkin fairy lights, a pumpkin I painted, a fall-scented candle and a Target decoration that I got for around two dollars. It doesn’t have to be the most extravagant decor by any means, just things that make you feel like your workspace is your own!
I hope these tips help, good luck!