Sometimes, life is not about sweeping changes but rather the subtle, small adjustments we make over time to reach our desired destination. Here are our thoughts on a serene autumn reset that leans less towards the “New Year, new me” mindset and more towards a grounded yet transformative approach.
1. Clear Your Space
The chaos within us often manifests in our surroundings. It can be challenging to separate ourselves from our environment. Begin with small steps; you don't have to transform your entire home into a showcase in a single day. Start with your nightstand or workspace, tackling one table and one drawer at a time. Allow yourself to relax in a cleaner setting, helping your mind recognize that not everything is chaotic. A tidy space can bring clarity that helps untangle many mental knots. Decluttering also involves getting rid of items that no longer serve you. Letting go of material possessions that make you feel weighed down is an excellent starting point. Instead of discarding these items, consider donating them to a good cause, like the local charity shop Roundabout.
2. The Digital Detox
Small issues can accumulate into larger burdens that are difficult to manage. Think of the 30,000 photos on your phone begging for organization, or the WeChat cache that's gone untouched for ages, not to mention the Spotify playlist of Liked Songs overflowing with tracks that have yet to be categorized. Give your digital life a reset, lighten the load on your device and in your mind, and organize videos and photos. Remove duplicates and those that hold no current significance as you transition back to regular life.
3. The People Detox
Resetting goes beyond digital spaces; it should also include the people in your life. Unsure where to begin? Start with the energy interactions. Consider the kind of energy a person brings into your life—how do they make you feel? It's often easy to identify negative energy; step back the moment it arrives. You don’t need people in your life who drain you; you should surround yourself with those who uplift and inspire you, rather than those who prompt self-doubt. When living in Beijing or abroad, it’s easy to make friends out of convenience, so ensure that the people around you are present for the right reasons.
4. Reevaluate Your Routine
Sometimes, we fall back into unhealthy habits. If this has been true for you lately, it’s time for a change. Take a closer look at your routines and patterns. If your sleep schedule has been affecting your energy at work in the morning, it’s worth reassessing. If your free time isn’t being spent well, consider better alternatives. Life is about change, and there's no shame in moving away from routines that haven't served you. Whether mental or physical, let go of harmful thought patterns, anxieties, and fears that disrupt your balance, and observe how your life transforms.
5. Reconnect With Your Body
Reconnect with yourself now—it doesn’t have to be a grand gesture or a monthly resolution. Move a bit and notice how it feels. A stroll in one of Beijing's beautiful parks or a walk through the hutongs might just lift your spirits. Autumn is a stunning time in Beijing, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the vibrant foliage. A meaningful reset begins with “now,” not “when I….” This is your moment, and every moment is a great opportunity. Choose an activity that makes your body move, stretch, or feel good, and enjoy it. There’s no goal or need for drastic weight loss—just movement that feels healthy and enjoyable.
6. Mindful Nourishment
Embrace foods that nourish your body. Instead of ordering the same takeout meal you've had countless times, consider trying something new from a different restaurant. Alternatively, skip the takeout entirely and try cooking for yourself. There are many quick and simple recipes available, with plenty of meal hacks on Instagram that let you create a delicious dish in under 30 minutes—less time than waiting for the greasy takeout that leaves you feeling heavy and unsatisfied. Snack on a handful of nuts and have some milk for genuine calcium (or nut milk if you’re lactose intolerant). Treat yourself occasionally, but aim to eat clean at least 80% of the time, and you’ll be on the right track.
7. Redefine Your Goals
Reconsider what goals mean to you, as they might have changed. It’s perfectly acceptable to revisit and set new objectives when the old ones no longer fit. You may have wanted something entirely different a few months ago, but now your interests may have shifted. Pursue this newfound passion and see where it leads you. There’s no shame in adjusting your focus to align with your current desires. Remember, Beijing is a vibrant city filled with opportunities to explore new interests and hobbies.
8. Cultivate Small Joys
Perhaps it’s time to lower the high standards that always prevent you from feeling satisfied, regardless of your achievements. It’s time to
At times, life isn't about sweeping transformations; it’s about the subtle, gradual changes we implement over time to reach our desired destination.
