September is the new January
The leaves are changing colour, summer has ended and I have that back to school feeling. It feels like a season of transition and of new beginnings.
And I’m discovering that I’m not alone. As a Life Coach, I have often focused on the beginning of the calendar year for new starts and goal setting but in fact good times for goal setting are during periods of natural change. And those for me are Spring and Autumn.
How many of you do what is expected and set new year resolutions in January only for them to last a week or two ( if you’re lucky)? With research showing that only 8% of us achieve our new years goals, perhaps it’s time to readjust this thinking and shift perspective.
There is now evidence that September is the new January. So many of us are conditioned into that back to school feeling ( think new clothes, school bag and new pencil case). In fact there is a sharp rise in September of people signing up to weight loss programmes, searching out career development, going to the gym, changing hairstyle and working on household budgets. It’s also now the most popular time to get married.
I also see more people reaching out for coaching, ready to make changes such as changing jobs, get healthier, get rid of negative thoughts, find love and so on.
Why is Autumn a good time for goal setting?
1. Achievement
Research shows that people who set goals in Autumn are more likely to achieve them. For example, those signing up to weight loss programmes are twice as likely to reach their goal.
2. Fresh start
It has the ‘fresh start’ effect. This time of year embraces this new beginning feeling. It’s a time to shed everything that no longer serves you, declutter what and who you no longer need and get clarity on what you do want. It is closely connected with having a clean slate. A chance to draw a line and have a renewed sense of motivation.
3. Natural transition
We can harness the natural change of seasons. Following the seasons is closely tied with natural periods of transition and change.
4. End of the year
It is a time to consider what you still want to achieve for the rest of the year. The year isn’t over yet. After another challenging year, it is good to feel that you can take some control and end the year well. What do you still want to do in the last quarter of the year?
5. Jump start
And you can get a jump start on the next year. Starting now means you are well under way as the new year begins, making it easier to continue.
As you reflect on what you have achieved this year and think towards the goals for the rest of the year and the coming year, think about what is important to you, that you want to prioritise in your life and don’t forget to include some joy and fun too.
Happiness Evangelist, Life Coach, Best-Selling Author and Speaker with over 30 years of experience, helping you to live a happy and fulfilling life.
Discover and live to your true potential. Live the life you desire!
