5 Things To Do Right Now That Will Help You Get Through the "Fall Wall"

Today I apologized to a coworker for being negative for the past two weeks. She (of course, in teacher fashion) was completely understanding and empathetic as she said, "Oh girl! You've just hit the fall wall! Don't worry about it."

It really got me thinking. I've totally hit the "fall wall," and after spending two weeks banging my head on this wall, I've decided I've got to get to the other side. It's possible to make it to Thanksgiving and Winter Break. Here's 5 ways to get there.

1. Embrace the season

I've been so stuck behind this "fall wall" that I've completely neglected the joy that comes with this time of year. The leaves are changing, the mornings are brighter, Starbucks' drinks are better than ever. A big goal of mine this year (and why I started très chic teacher) was to let work be work, and to live my life to the fullest.

Instead of harping on the negativity that can pulse through the school (or office) at this time of year, let's focus on the good. Let's make plans for simple fall activities that foster joy and excitement as we get closer to the holiday season. Let's pull out our fall sweaters and light the harvest-scented candles as we watch Gilmore Girls on a Wednesday evening.

"The thinnest yellow light of November is more warming and exhilarating than any wine they tell of. The mite which November contributes becomes equal in value to the bounty of July." - Henry David Thoreau

2. Kill 'em with kindness

I've noticed that it's not only me in a slump or a bad mood, but my coworkers and students as well. At this time of year, we're exhausted after the honeymoon phase of the first quarter has passed and the Halloween candy has been consumed. Without getting into the nitty-gritty of discipline with students, I find that it's best if I practice my first instinct being kindness and empathy rather than "sass" or negativity.

If I took it personally every time a student groaned when I presented an activity, I wouldn't have much positivity left in my body. Thus, I've learned to brush these students reactions off and focus on my mantras: I'm a good teacher. I am kind. I am doing my best.

This is not to say we should be pushing a culture of toxic positivity. We are validated in feeling exhausted and burned-out. However, I've found that training my brain to resort to deep breaths, goodwill, and tranquility has helped tremendously, no matter what's being thrown at me.

3. Pull out the hair tools or the blush (or both!)

As superficial as it sounds, I swear there's something magical in a morning beauty routine. Whether it's five minutes or forty-five minutes, taking that time to prep yourself for the day will affect you. I've said it before: Look good, feel good, work good.*

*I don't condone this grammar, but I do condone the message.

4. Add something to your desk to bring comfort or enhance productivity

I've realized that having a clean, cute, and organized desk makes me feel refreshed, instead of reactive, when I sit down in the morning. This can be as simple as writing yourself a post-it note with a cheesy inspirational quote or a lyrics from Taylor Swift's midnights, to treating yourself to a trinket that has a function.

When it comes to specific items for me, I started off the year covering my desk in marble contact paper (so easy!). This elevated my space right away. I also swear by having a school-only cup (I bring home every week to wash -- don't worry!). I like cups with straws, or this water bottle is just fantastic. I personally operate best with a To-Do list, and it's one of the first things I set up when I get to my desk. In the same vein, I set up and update my weekly calendar pad that I keep neatly next to my laptop (which is elevated on its riser).

5. Eat hearty & eat healthy

Here's where I am struggling if I'm being honest. After a long day of teaching imagery in Lord of the Flies and embedding quotes from an encyclopedia, I get home and practically collapse into bed. I tend to doze off for a while, and then wake up, roll into workout clothes, and soon enough, it's 7:30. The last thing I've been wanting to do then is make a meal -- let alone consume a vegetable.

My goal this November is to get out of the slump by prepping ahead and utilizing my crockpot. I have tons of (easy) recipes saved from TikTok and HalfBakedHarvest on Instagram, but I never plan ahead. This month, I'm prioritizing groceries by planning for a grocery pickup after school. This negates the decision fatigue we professionals experience after a long day. I 10/10 would recommend looking into the grocery pickup option at your local store. At Kroger, it's free!

If you have any thoughts or ideas, comment below! TCT