How to Get Organized During the Slow Fall Months
Fall tends to be a quieter time of year for many of us. With the hustle and bustle of summer behind us and the holidays just around the corner, it’s the perfect opportunity to focus on organizing and preparing for the year ahead. Whether it's personal tasks, home maintenance, or business responsibilities, taking advantage of this slower pace will set you up for a smoother end of the year.
Let’s dive into some simple ways to get organized during the slow fall months so you can finish strong and start the new year stress-free!
Personal Organization: Clean Up the Clutter
The slower pace of fall makes it the ideal time to catch up on those little personal tasks that have been piling up. Here are a few things you can knock out this season:
Handle Unreturned Items: If you’ve got any items sitting around that need to be returned to the store, now’s the time to take care of it! Whether it’s something you bought months ago that didn’t work out or an online order you’ve been meaning to send back, crossing it off your list will feel like a weight lifted.
Donation Run: We all have that pile of clothes or household items waiting to be donated. Fall is the perfect time to gather up those bags and drop them off at a local charity. Plus, getting rid of clutter before the holidays will free up space and give you a fresh start!
Check Your Subscriptions: We all sign up for subscriptions that sometimes fall off our radar. Use this slower time to review any streaming services, automated subscriptions, or other memberships you’re paying for but not really using. Cancel or pause anything unnecessary and save yourself some cash for the upcoming holiday season.
Seasonal Closet Switch: With the weather cooling down, it’s a good time to swap out your wardrobe. Pack away your summer clothes and make room for warmer layers. If you have kids, go through their closets as well—donating or passing down anything they’ve outgrown will clear up space for any winter gear they’ll need.
Home Improvement Projects: Been putting off minor home repairs or updates? Now’s your chance to tackle those to-dos. Whether it’s hiring a handyman for that leaky faucet or finally repainting a room, getting these little projects done during the fall means less stress when the holiday season arrives.
Major Appliance Check: Before the colder months hit, it’s a smart move to schedule maintenance for your furnace or any major appliances that need attention. This simple step can save you from any last-minute headaches when the temperature drops.
Business Organization: End the Year on a High Note
If you’re a business owner, fall is a great time to review and tidy up your operations. Wrapping up these tasks before the year’s end will help you start the new year feeling in control and prepared.
Review Insurance Policies: Now’s a good time to review your business insurance coverage. Make sure everything is up-to-date and that you’re not overpaying. If your business has grown or changed this year, consider if you need to adjust your policy.
Wills and Power of Attorney: It may not be the most exciting task, but if your business has seen changes, fall is a good time to update legal documents like wills and power of attorney. Having everything in order will give you peace of mind as you move forward.
Evaluate Business Expenditures: Take a look at your recurring business expenses. Are you paying for subscriptions or tools that aren’t really serving you? This is a great time to make adjustments, upgrade where needed, or cut out any unnecessary spending.
Education & Professional Development: Use the quieter fall months to invest in yourself. Research a course or workshop that could help sharpen your skills or grow your business. A little learning now could give you a great boost going into the new year.
Clean Up Business Automations: If your business relies on systems or automations, fall is a perfect time to make sure everything is running smoothly. Whether it’s your CRM or email marketing tools, now’s your chance to fine-tune those processes before things get busier.
Tidy Up Bookkeeping: Got any outstanding invoices? Lingering financial tasks? It’s a good idea to clean up your bookkeeping now. Get everything squared away so you can go into the holiday season and the new year with a clear financial picture.
Networking & Learning: This time of year is also great for catching up on industry trends or seeking out networking opportunities. Whether it’s a business podcast, book, or local event, investing time in professional growth now will pay off down the road.
Pro Tips for Staying Organized During the Fall
Want to make the most of your fall organizing spree? Here are a few extra tips to help keep you on track:
Make a List: Writing down your tasks gives you a clear view of what needs to be done. Plus, there’s nothing more satisfying than crossing off items as you go!
One Task at a Time: Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to do everything at once. Focus on one area—whether it’s personal tasks, home projects, or business responsibilities—and finish it before moving on to the next.
Set Small Goals: Breaking down larger projects into smaller steps can make everything feel more manageable. Set small goals, and celebrate when you reach them!
Reward Yourself: After you’ve made progress, take a moment to reward yourself. Whether it’s a quiet evening to relax or treating yourself to something special, it’s important to recognize your hard work.
Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Get Organized
Fall tends to be a quieter time, giving you space to focus on organization without the chaos of busier seasons. Whether you’re prepping your home for winter, catching up on personal tasks, or cleaning up your business processes, using this slower season to get things in order will set you up for a smooth and successful end to the year.
Getting organized during the slower fall months can make a world of difference in how you finish the year. By clearing out clutter, checking in on home maintenance, and reviewing your business, you’re laying the groundwork for a stress-free holiday season and a fresh start to the new year.
As always, if you need extra guidance in organizing your personal life, home, or business, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help you every step of the way. Remember, you deserve to finish the year feeling confident, prepared, and ready to take on whatever comes next!
Until next time,
Elissa