Mental clarity – Managing the ‘September reset’ pressure
September often carries an almost symbolic weight. The holidays are over, schools reopen, and workplaces often ramp up in intensity. For many, this can feel like the start of a “second new year” – a fresh slate to set goals, reset, reorganise, and refocus. There is a sense of potential in the air, and a collective opportunity to make changes and pursue goals that may have been postponed over the summer.
Psychologists call this the “temporal landmark effect,” where calendar milestones, such as the end of summer holidays, spark motivation to make changes and start afresh.
But while this surge of energy can feel positive, it also carries a hidden risk: pressure. If you try to take on too much too soon, the result can be stress, self-criticism, and even burnout. Protecting your mental health during this transition is just as important as setting new intentions. Overcommitment can lead to frustration, and instead of feeling motivated, we risk feeling overwhelmed.
The mental load of a reset
- Overcommitment: Signing up for too many projects, classes, or personal goals at once can dilute your energy and focus.
- All-or-nothing thinking: Believing that everything must change immediately can lead to burnout and disappointment when progress is slower than expected.
- Burnout risk: Pushing too hard at the start of autumn often results in exhaustion, leaving us less productive and more stressed as we approach the year’s end.
How to harness the reset without the stress
- Start small and specific: Instead of a vague resolution like “I want to be healthier,” try a precise, actionable goal: “I will cook two homemade dinners each week” or “I will walk 20 minutes every morning.” Small wins build momentum and strengthen a sense of achievement.
- Prioritise, don’t pile on: Pick one or two key areas to focus on this month. You do not need to overhaul everything at once. Quality and consistency matter more than quantity.
- Balance drive with downtime: Rest and reflection are essential components of progress. Schedule short breaks, leisure activities, and moments of stillness alongside your goals. This prevents fatigue and enhances creativity.
- Celebrate progress: Take time to track small achievements and acknowledge your effort. Success is not only the endpoint – it is the accumulation of daily actions that align with your values.
- Reflect regularly: Weekly check-ins with yourself can help identify what is working, what is causing stress, and where adjustments are needed. This mindful approach keeps your goals sustainable.
Reframing your reset
True progress is not about doing more – it is about focusing on what matters most while maintaining energy and wellbeing. This September, focus on balance: make changes that support your mental health rather than strain it. By approaching the season with self-compassion, you’re more likely to feel grounded, resilient, and ready for the months ahead.
By giving yourself permission to progress gradually, you are more likely to stick with habits, enjoy your achievements, and approach challenges with clarity and confidence. Remember, autumn is not a race, it is an opportunity to recalibrate and strengthen the habits that will serve you long after the season ends.