Embracing autumn: A time for reflection and introspection

Autumn is here. The daylight hours are lessening and the temperature is cooling as we tick by towards wintertime. And like so many sayings and memes going around at this time of year, the trees are ‘showing us how lovely it is to let go’. But what is it about this season that suggests reflection, introspection and life evaluation? 

The change of seasons and the call for inner reflection

Autumn is known to be the point in the year of change - the unpredictable weather, the varying colours in the landscape, animals’ behaviours (think migration or preparation for winter), the decreasing daylight, the succumbing to jumpers and boots, the alterations in activity levels or hobbies, the outbursts of nuts and fungi whilst other plants fade away.

All of this consciously and subconsciously prompts us to notice ourselves in comparison to the changing world around us, which can leave us questioning and wondering about opportunities for change, too. 

What are reflection and introspection?

Introspection can be defined as ‘an examination of and attention to your own ideas, thoughts and feelings’, or the ‘reflective looking inwards’; whilst reflection is the ‘serious and careful thought or consideration’. Note the subtle difference of perspective between the two - of looking outwards and inwards.

Both have a place and purpose, however, their outcomes can vary depending on how they are used and interpreted.

Why autumn is the perfect time for reflection and introspection

At this time of year, when the chillier, sometimes wetter and darker evenings return, we can find ourselves indoors more often with perhaps time and the opportunities available for consideration and, thus, evaluation - this can be a very different feeling to the summertime when usually the finer weather and social invitations and activities mean less time ‘being’, and more time ‘doing’. Hence, the season of autumn is offering us a change in pace, an opportunity for change through having time and circumstance for reflection and introspection.

Why is introspection important? 

Giving ourselves the space and chance to look inward means we can gain greater and deeper insight and knowledge of ourselves, which increases our understanding of our emotions, thoughts and behaviours. This introspection can enhance emotional awareness that enables a more cohesive relationship with ourselves, which can, in turn, strengthen autonomy, develop clearer communication, and improve relationships with others.

As with the trees appearing to slow down, let go, and begin their silent stance for the oncoming winter, we know that their changes and leaf losses are ways in which they are preparing themselves to conserve energy and efficiency for the darker and more challenging times ahead.

So, let us learn from their example by also giving ourselves the time to slow down, give time for reflection, introspection and evaluation so that we too can shed things that might no longer serve us or change patterns and behaviours to benefit ourselves, and prepare for the darker and sometimes more challenging times of the year (such as festivities and expectations when perhaps we actually feel overwhelmed or unready).

The importance of balance

'Everything in moderation' is a phrase we can hear quite often, and here is no exception. Too much introspection and reflection can sometimes feed into worries, self-doubt, anxieties, stress, and overwhelm. Whilst rumination can stifle motivation and productivity, or hinder concentration and communication. So balance is key.

Ideas for autumnal introspection

Some introspection ideas can include:

• Mindfulness: Be present in the moment through meditation, nature connection, mindful walking or breathing exercises.
• Journaling: Write down or draw thoughts and emotions and keep them in a journal so you can keep track of them. 
• Ask yourself questions: Use open-ended questions to encourage deeper thinking. For example:
  • What are my values?
  • What are my fears?
  • What are my strengths and weaknesses?
  • What brings me joy?
  • Why do I react in that way?
• Reflect on your past experiences: Give yourself time to reflect back upon previous moments in your life and evaluate responses and outcomes. Understanding this can offer personal development. 

Developing introspection and reflection is something that takes time and practice. It is a continuous process - and this also requires kindness, compassion and patience with ourselves. It can be all too easy to become self-critical or judgmental, so giving ourselves a time and place to comfortably relax into this process (so that it is for the benefit of ourselves) is important. Through change there can be found future growth and, like the season of autumn is showing us, this is the opportune time.