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As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to embrace the planning season. Often referred to as “autumn strategizing” those who engage in the practice of planning for the coming year begin to think of current trends and potential outcomes of the near future. These people who plan for the next year in the fall of the current year are often referred to as “forward thinkers”.
However, fall is also a time when productivity can wane. There’s an inherent temptation to slow down. Did you know it’s actually called “wintering at work” and is the equivalent to hibernating? The term “wintering” at work includes characteristics such as reducing your pace and conserving energy, or just focusing on the essential tasks as the seasons change. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing as some companies follow a fiscal calendar so there’s no need to kick off a new plan in January. And, in many cases individuals and teams can thrive by being more mindful in the quieter colder months, preparing for a more vibrant and productive spring.
Whichever environment you’re in, we’re sharing some tips from our Leadership Summit and what we’re bringing back to the office, and we’ll also share some tips to ensure your office remains vibrant if you’re wintering at work throughout the autumn months.
Here’s a glimpse into our experience and what we’re bringing back to the office.
During our time away, we dedicated significant portions of our agenda to collaborative brainstorming. By leveraging the diverse perspectives of our leadership team, we were able to generate innovative ideas that address both current challenges and future opportunities. Enhancing team dynamics during a session with Lauren Sweeney, Vice President of RiseUp For You was extremely informative. Every voice was heard, leading to robust discussions and actionable insights.
One of the key takeaways from our Leadership Sumit was the importance of trust and camaraderie within our leadership team. Engaging in team-building exercises helped us strengthen our relationships and foster open communication. We recognized that a cohesive team drives better decision-making and inspires the rest of the organization.
The offsite also provided a valuable opportunity for strategic visioning. We revisited our long-term goals, set new goals for the coming year and created realistic action plans so that we could be sure to stay on track! With a clear vision in place, we are excited to align our teams and initiatives around our core values and objectives.
Another guest speaker, Josh Graves, Founder and Owner of Fitness on Fire, shared his insights on what it takes to make permanent change. He inspired us to take small steps towards healthier habits and explained how those incremental changes can lead to big results.
Leaders, we encourage you to step away from your desk, find a meeting place for you and your colleagues—even if it’s a conference room down the hall—and discuss your business. What’s working, what isn’t, what do you need more of and what can you give?
For those that are wintering at work and looking for ideas to implement when you’re in the office during the crisp fall days:
Declutter and Organize: As we transition into fall, take the time to declutter your workspace. A clean and organized desk can significantly boost productivity and reduce stress. Get rid of any unnecessary papers, old files, and clutter. Consider implementing an organization system that works for you, such as color-coded folders or digital filing systems.
Seasonal Decor: Adding a touch of fall decor can lift spirits and create a warm atmosphere. Consider bringing in small pumpkins, colorful leaves, or warm-toned candles to brighten up your workspace. Just be mindful to keep decorations professional and minimalistic.
Dress for the Season: With the temperature dropping, it's important to adapt your wardrobe for comfort and professionalism. Layering is key—choose breathable fabrics that can keep you warm without overheating. Consider adding cardigans, blazers, or scarves that complement your professional attire while allowing for flexibility as office temperatures can fluctuate.
Stay Hydrated: As the weather changes, it’s easy to forget to stay hydrated. Keep a water bottle at your desk to encourage regular water intake. Herbal teas can also be a great option to keep warm while staying hydrated.
Boost Immunity: Fall is often synonymous with cold and flu season. Encourage healthy habits in the office by promoting flu shots and sharing tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Regular handwashing and sanitizing common areas can help prevent illness from spreading.
Aromatherapy: Introducing essential oils or scented candles can also enhance the mood in the office. Scents like cinnamon, clove, and vanilla can evoke the feelings of fall and improve focus and productivity. Make sure to choose subtle scents that are not overwhelming to others.
Fall Team Building: Consider organizing seasonal activities to boost morale and foster teamwork. Whether it’s a pumpkin carving contest, an office potluck featuring seasonal dishes, or a group outing to a local orchard, these activities can bring colleagues together and create a sense of community.
Goal Setting: Fall can be an excellent time for reflection and goal setting. Encourage your team to revisit their goals for the year and assess progress. Hosting a meeting to discuss achievements and set new objectives can help everyone stay focused as the year winds down.
Adapt to Seasonal Changes: Fall represents change, making it an ideal time to evaluate current projects and processes. Encourage open communication among team members to discuss what’s working and what needs improvement. Being adaptable and open to change can lead to increased efficiency and innovation in the workplace.
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By embracing the spirit of autumn in the office, you can create an environment that fosters productivity, collaboration, and well-being. Whether you host a Leadership Summit that brings you back to the office invigorated and ready to plan for the new year, or through simply refreshing your workspace, promoting health, or planning seasonal activities, there are many ways to make the most of this beautiful season. Let’s celebrate fall together and make this a productive and enjoyable time in the office!
