Fall, My Old Friend

 When the humidity fades and that cool autumn breeze arrives, my energy and mood improve considerably. September and October might just be my favorite time of year. For an introvert like me, the beginning of the slowing down and focusing inward is extremely appealing, and the mugs of warm tea and flickering candles don't hurt either. 

I've been doing a lot of thinking about where I get my energy recently. When I describe myself as an introvert, some are surprised. I'm not particularly shy and I am certainly one of those people who can talk to anyone about anything. But, that is not where I get my energy. In fact (and no offense, friends), large social situations actually drain my energy. It isn't to say that I'm not having a good time, it's just that for me, I charge my batteries with large doses of unscheduled time alone. One on one time with friends or my beau are the exception to this rule, but generally speaking, this is how I operate. I feel as if summer isn't exactly an introvert's natural habitat. With so much going on and the emphasis on being "out and about", I can feel a little out of my element at an all day pool party or backyard barbeque. 

When planning my weeks and especially weekends, I've got to make sure there is enough unscheduled time thrown in the mix. While I know my beau isn't thrilled with my love of planning the weekends on Monday, it really helps set my expectations and know how much downtime I need to plan during the week to offset it. I know it may sound silly to some, but if I don't get enough unscheduled time, anxiety creeps in & I'm even less content in the social situations. 

Fall is like nature's little nudge that it's okay to be a little introverted -- a Saturday morning spent lingering at your favorite brunch spot or (better yet) cozy in bed, an evening after work in a cozy chair with the book you just can't put down, or inviting friends over for chili that you threw in the CrockPot. Slowing down is natural, and I feel that this season is more in tune with my inner rhythm than any other (though I warn you, I'm one of those confusing people that loves winter as well).

Also, the "back to school" nature of this time of year means that it's a wonderful time to reflect, plan, and organize. Last night, I spent over an hour charting out September & October in my planner, making bullet pointed lists of all of those nagging life administrative items that must be taken care of. 

Regardless of your extrovert vs introvert status, I think fall is the perfect time for us all of us to slow down a little and refocus on what brings us happiness. For me, it's finding that balance between social time and solitude, with some new school supplies thrown in to keep me organized. 

Happy September!

{Image via Pinterest}