Boosting positive energy through the “ber”-months

September marks the start of spring in South Africa—a season of new growth, blossoming trees, and renewed possibilities. Nature awakens with vibrance, yet for many employees and leaders, the transition into the so-called “ber”-months (September, October, November, and December) doesn’t always bring the same renewal. Instead, fatigue, slower work performance, irritability, and even negative mindsets can creep in. 

The end of the year often comes with increased workloads, deadlines, planning for the new year, and personal pressures. The result? A season where energy levels are low, but demands remain high. The good news is that with intentional practices, both employees and leaders can build positive energy to carry them through these months successfully. 

1. Acknowledge the energy dip 

The first step is simply recognising that energy dips are normal. Just like nature cycles through seasons, so do people. Leaders can normalise conversations around energy and well-being, creating space for employees to share challenges without stigma. Employees, on the other hand, can benefit from self-awareness—recognising when tiredness or irritability is creeping in and taking small steps to address it. 

2. Focus on micro-renewals during the day 

Waiting for a holiday to recharge often isn’t enough. Instead, build in some micro-renewals: 

• Take a five-minute walk outside. 

• Stretch between meetings. 

• Practice mindful breathing. 

• Step away from screens during lunch. 

These small pauses accumulate into sustained energy. Leaders can model this by visibly practicing breaks themselves, signalling that it’s not only allowed but encouraged. 

3. Reconnect with purpose 

Energy isn’t just physical; it’s emotional and mental too. People thrive when they feel connected to why their work matters. Leaders can help their teams revisit goals, celebrate small wins, and link daily tasks to the bigger picture. Employees can reflect on their personal “why”—whether it’s providing for family, professional growth, or making a difference through their role. Purpose fuels resilience. 

4. Protect boundaries and manage workload 

One major drain during the “ber”-months is the push to “finish everything before year-end.” Leaders can support employees by prioritising effectively, cutting unnecessary tasks, and clarifying what truly needs to be completed now versus what can wait. Employees can support themselves by setting boundaries, saying no when necessary, and maintaining healthy work-life integration. 

5. Nurture positive connections 

Energy is contagious. Surrounding yourself with positive colleagues, supportive teams, and uplifting conversations helps shift the collective mood. Leaders can build this by fostering gratitude practices in meetings, acknowledging contributions, and encouraging peer support. Employees can do their part by practicing kindness, offering help, and avoiding unnecessary negativity. 

6. Look after the basics: sleep, nutrition, and movement 

It may sound obvious, but much of our energy comes down to how well we care for our bodies: 

• Sleep: Prioritise rest as much as possible. 

• Nutrition: Choose foods that sustain rather than spike and crash energy. 

• Movement: Even light exercise helps regulate mood and energy. 

When the basics are in place, everything else feels more manageable. 

7. Celebrate progress along the way 

Instead of waiting for the December break to exhale, find moments to pause and celebrate milestones. End of project reviews, informal team lunches, or even short acknowledgments in meetings help remind everyone that they are making progress. 

Final thought 

The “ber”-months don’t have to feel like a slow march toward exhaustion. With small intentional practices, leaders and employees can maintain positive energy, nurture resilience, and finish the year strong. Just as spring signals growth and new beginnings, the latter part of the year can be a season of flourishing, not fatigue, but only if we choose to cultivate it. 

What’s one positive energy habit you can start today to carry you through September and beyond?