Just a few short weeks ago, we were lounging on the beach with our brimmed hats and sunglasses, reading another compelling selection from Reese Witherspoon’s book club (seriously, the best beach reads). As usual, summer abruptly came and went, leaving some of us yearning for more warm weather and others excitingly sporting flannels and Ugg boots immediately following Labor Day’s end. It’s like overnight, the population divided between eager pumpkin spice lovers and those mourning the days of trying to finish their ice cream before it melted off the cone (the struggle).
This time of year even causes some to experience seasonal affective disorder, explaining their end-of-summer blues. This condition is when our mood and behavior shift following the change in seasons—particularly during fall and winter when the days grow shorter. Going from late-night swims to cocooning ourselves under our duvets is a harsh transition for even those who adore the wintry months. And the change in weather patterns could be a contributing factor for those suffering from low energy, depression, and social withdrawal once fall arrives.
On the flip side, this time of year gives us an opportunity for reflection. The seasonal changeover allows us to ruminate over our thoughts and feelings, some as literal as why we dread leaving the couch during November or reminiscing about the special moments that typically accompany the fall season.
If you’re having trouble welcoming autumn with open arms like others who have fully embraced the season, try a few journaling exercises to observe your feelings on paper. Below are ten fall journal prompts that may help you lift your spirits on cold weather days. May I suggest slipping into your comfiest oversized sweater and sipping on hot chocolate to set the scene? You may end up turning your attitude right around, making fall your new favorite season.
10 fall journal prompts
What are your favorite parts of the season?
When the leaves fall, it reminds you of…
What can you notice about the changes of the season that make you feel good?
The thought of doing ____ in the fall weather makes you smile.
What’s a positive memory of something you did this time of year as a child?
Name something you see, something you smell, something you taste, and something you touch in autumn that gives you comfort.
What are you most grateful for that may have been missing in previous years?
Where is your special place to go this time of year?
What’s something you can accomplish this season that would make you feel proud?
What’s a special dessert that you only get to indulge in in the fall?
If you’d like to share some of the entries inspired by these fall journal prompts, feel free to leave them in the comments below!
