Our wellbeing guru, Nat, has been talking to us about how to change our work rhythms as Autumn approaches. Summer has passed and there’s a good four months until we celebrate Christmas and the new year. This can feel like a long time but in reality, it means we have a great opportunity to kick start projects and really make our presence known before the ‘silly season’ hits. To make the most of this time, it’s important to focus on our own wellbeing in order that we can give our best at work.

Here are Nat’s suggestions for boosting our Autumn wellbeing and working well this season.

Embracing the changing season and focusing on ourselves and what matters

As summer fades and autumn settles in, the rhythm of our working lives often changes. The days get shorter, the air crisper, and our energy levels can shift with the season. Autumn can be a beautiful time to pause, recalibrate, and nurture our wellbeing at work.

1. Embrace the seasonal shift

Autumn naturally invites us to slow down a little. Nature turns inward, conserving energy and preparing for winter – we can take a cue from this. In the workplace, this might mean reviewing priorities, adjusting workloads, and giving yourself permission to balance periods of high focus with moments of rest.

Tip: Build in short “reset” breaks during your day. Even five minutes away from the screen can refresh your mind and protect against burnout.

2. Make the most of daylight

With daylight hours shrinking, many people notice changes in mood and motivation. Exposure to natural light, even for a brief time, can help regulate sleep, boost mood, and keep your energy steady.

Tip: Schedule walking meetings or a lunchtime stroll outside. Natural light and movement are powerful partners for mental clarity.

3. Nourish your body with seasonal foods

Autumn brings an abundance of grounding, nutrient-rich foods. I’m talking about root vegetables, pumpkins, apples, and warming spices. Eating in tune with the season can stabilise energy levels and support immunity, which is particularly helpful in busier or more stressful periods at work.

Tip: Plan balanced lunches with a mix of protein, whole grains, and seasonal vegetables to fuel your afternoon without the dreaded slump.

4. Create a calmer workspace

As darker evenings approach, we often spend more time indoors. Making your workspace inviting can enhance your mood and focus. A little autumn-inspired warmth from soft lighting, a favourite mug, or even a desk plant can make a big difference.

Tip: Tidy your digital and physical workspace. A clear environment can calm the mind and help you feel more in control of your day.

5. Protect your mental health

Autumn can bring emotional shifts. The transition from long, sunny days to colder, shorter ones can trigger a dip in mood for some people. Checking in with yourself, and with each other, becomes even more important.

Tip: Stay connected. Whether it’s a quick coffee chat with a colleague or a supportive conversation with a friend, maintaining social bonds can boost resilience during seasonal changes.

6. Prepare for the year’s final chapter

Autumn is a natural time for reflection. As the year nears its end, it’s a good opportunity to review achievements, celebrate progress, and set intentions for the months ahead. There shouldn’t be any pressure or even recriminations as you do this. Use it as a time to reflect for clarity and care.

Tip: Recognise small wins at work. Gratitude and acknowledgement can lift spirits, keep motivation alive, and help teams feel valued.

In short: Autumn is not just about falling leaves! It’s about letting go of unnecessary pressures, embracing change, and finding balance. By making thoughtful adjustments in how we work and care for ourselves, we can stay well, productive, and grounded through the season.

How can we help?

September really is the perfect month to invest in your bookkeeping or PA team infrastructure. Whether you choose to overhaul internal processes or engage external support, the steps you take now will pay dividends when December arrives and the new year arrives. 

Maybe there are tasks or projects that you can outsource to qualified professionals? The Hour Hands bookkeepers, for example, can efficiently handle bank reconciliations, invoice processing, and prepare your VAT return, freeing up your internal team to focus on strategic activities that drive growth. Our PA and EA teams can manage your diary, clear your inbox or even set you your Christmas event for staff or customers.

Add us to your contacts list if you need help with any aspect of your business from bookkeeping to acting as a virtual PA, or if you need help with one off tasks such as developing a business plan. 

Simply fill in the contact form or give us a call. We’re always on hand and happy to help!