Thursday Thoughts: Why Fall Is the Best Time to Set New Goals

Do you feel a boost of motivation in October? Does the changing season inspire you to take action? You're not alone. The viral "October Theory," recently popularized on TikTok, suggests that autumn might be the ideal time for personal transformation—not January. Now, with less than 90 days until the new year, use this time to reflect on the months that have passed and set meaningful goals for the rest of the year.

What Is October Theory?

According to "October Theory," the changing season marks a natural inclination for new beginnings. While January is often considered the time for fresh starts, October offers a unique opportunity. Brianna Paruolo, LMHC Clinical Director & Founder of On Par Therapy, told Bustle the fall season symbolizes transformation. "As the leaves change color and fall, we're reminded of the beauty in letting go and embracing new beginnings," she said.

Fall is indeed a time of transition—marked by the new school year, the cooler weather, and changes at work as companies prepare for hiring/downsizing. These environmental and societal shifts combine to create what Paruolo calls a "perfect storm" for personal growth.

Why October Is the Perfect Time for Goal-Setting

So, why is October a better time than January to set new goals?

1. End-of-Year Reflection: By October, you can feel how quickly the year is passing. Use this as a natural moment to pause and reflect on what you've achieved and still want to accomplish.

2. 90-Day Momentum: Starting new habits on October 1st gives you 90 days until the new year. Research shows that a habit takes an average of 66 days to become automatic. By the time January arrives, your goals will already have momentum, making it easier to stick to your resolutions.

3. Seasonal Shifts: We feel sensory cues of change when the leaves change, the weather gets cooler, and the days become shorter. Autumn is a time when many people feel more introspective, making it the perfect opportunity to set personal or professional goals.
   

How to Harness the Energy of October for Your Goals

October provides the perfect setting to revisit your goals and set new ones. Do you want to take on a fitness challenge? Is there a personal project you've been wanting to start? Is it time for a career shift? It is time to get started now! Here's how you can take advantage of the energy October brings:

• Set Specific Goals: Create actionable and realistic goals for the next 90 days. Consider breaking them down into smaller tasks that you can achieve every week.

• Use the Power of Habit Stacking: Use October to layer new habits on top of existing ones. For example, if you already go for a walk each morning, add five minutes of meditation afterward.

• Find Accountability: Share your goals with a friend or join a group to help you stay motivated. Or you can reach out to me! We all need accountability for maintaining progress, especially as colder months approach when we tend to hibernate.

• Reflect and Adjust: As you move through October, periodically reflect on your goals and adjust them as needed. It's okay if things don't go exactly as planned—what matters is that you're making progress.

  
  

Setting Goals in October

Need some help getting started? Here are my tips to help you make the most of October Theory:

•  Review the Year So Far: Take time to reflect on what you've accomplished and where you've faced challenges.

•  Set 1-3 Goals: Focus on a few meaningful goals you can work on for the next 90 days.

•  Create a Plan: Break your goals down into smaller, achievable tasks.

•  Build New Habits: Use habit stacking to incorporate new routines into your day.

•  Track Your Progress: Use a journal or habit-tracking app to monitor your progress weekly.

•  Find an Accountability Partner: Share your goals with a friend, coach, or group to stay motivated.

Looking Ahead—Why Start Now?

If you start setting goals in October, you'll give yourself a head start on the new year. Instead of rushing to make resolutions in January, you'll already be on the path to developing lasting habits. Improving your health, advancing your career, or focusing on self-care can start right now.

Ready to make October the first month of your transformation? Book a coaching session to help you get started on your goals.

Let Me Be Your Accountability Partner