Even as adults, we can’t escape that familiar September reset, a phenomenon often referred to as the "Wellness New Year" or the "New New Year." It’s the time when we naturally feel the urge to refresh, reorganise, and set new intentions, much like the start of a new school year. But why does September feel like such a pivotal moment for change, and how can we make the most of it?
What Is the September Reset?
The September Reset is the feeling of renewal that comes over us as summer ends. As children, we associated September with the start of a new school year, when we’d put our heads down and start working towards our goals for the next 12 months. September is also coined as the “Wellness New Year”, where after a summer of holidays and increased social plans, we feel the need to knuckle down and re-focus again. With only 4 months left of the year, September is a welcomed self check-in to help us achieve the goals we hoped at the beginning of the year.
Why September Feels Like a Refresh
There’s something inherently refreshing about September. Maybe it’s the lingering memories of returning to school, or the welcomed slower living after a summer of weddings and after-work drinks. Even if it’s been years since you last set foot in a classroom, those ingrained patterns remain. Summer, with its endless days and relaxed vibe, can feel like a blur of barbecues, vacations, and long evenings. By the time September rolls around, many of us crave structure, routine, and a sense of purpose again.
Moreover, the timing is perfect. The distractions of summer fade, and there’s a significant stretch of time before the hectic holiday season begins. It’s an ideal moment to pause, take stock, and set intentions for the remainder of the year. Unlike January, which is often burdened with heavy expectations and post-holiday exhaustion, September offers a gentler, more natural reset.
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The Benefits of a September Reset
Taking advantage of the September reset can lead to numerous benefits:
- Mental Clarity: With the busy summer behind you, September offers a clear space to think about what truly matters to you. It’s easier to focus and prioritise your goals.
- Renewed Motivation: The seasonal change often brings a renewed energy that you can channel into new projects or healthy habits.
- Improved Well-Being: Establishing a routine that includes self-care, regular exercise, and mindfulness can significantly enhance your physical and mental health.
- Sense of Accomplishment: By setting and achieving new goals, even small ones, you can experience a boost in self-esteem and satisfaction as the end of the year draws closer.
How to Make the Most of Your September Reset
Here’s how you can embrace the back-to-school spirit and make the most of your September reset:
- Reflect on the Year So Far: Take some time to think about what’s been working for you and what hasn’t. Do more of what has made you happy, and less of the things you’d rather leave behind.
- Set Realistic Goals: Start with small, achievable goals (that we like to call Goldilocks Goals) that can give you a sense of momentum. Whether it’s reorganising your wardrobe, starting a new hobby, or committing to daily walks, set intentions that will make you proud at the end of the year.
- Revamp Your Routine: If your summer schedule was chaotic, September is the perfect time to slow down and create a daily routine that balances work, rest, and play.
- Take Some Time Offline: Spending dedicated time offline for a digital detox is the perfect way to kick-start you September. Use the 3 days to recalibrate, rest and set new digital habits.
- Plan for the Future: Start thinking ahead to the end of the year. What do you want to accomplish before the holidays? What would make you feel proud looking back on 2024?
The September reset is more than just a nostalgic nod to our school days. It’s an opportunity to refresh, refocus, and realign with what matters most. By embracing this natural shift in energy, you can set the tone for a productive, fulfilling final stretch of the year.
