Remember that back-to-school feeling? The crisp air, the promise of new stationery, and the sense of a fresh start? It turns out that feeling isn't just for kids. September brings with it a natural shift in our routines, making it the perfect time for an adult-style 'habit reboot'.

Our wellbeing coaches, Grant and Carin, recently held a webinar on this very topic, and the message was clear, transitioning from the laid-back days of summer to the more structured schedule of autumn is a powerful catalyst for positive change.

The Science Behind a Habit Reboot in September

Why does September feel so different from, say, a random Tuesday in May? The answer lies in what psychologists call the fresh start effect. Our brains love new beginnings. They provide a psychological milestone, a clean slate. This is why so many of us make New Year's resolutions. September offers a similar, but often less stressful, opportunity to reset and refocus.

Unlike January, when many people feel drained from the holidays, September is a time of renewed energy. You might have just returned from a relaxing vacation, spent more time outdoors, and are feeling ready to re-engage with your goals. The shifting seasons naturally support building new habits and a renewed sense of focus.

Overcoming Roadblocks to Your Habit Reboot

We all have great intentions, but action is where we often fall short. During the webinar, attendees shared common barriers to habit change, including:

Grant and Carin emphasised that successful habit change isn't about perfection; it's about progress, not perfection. A key takeaway was to be self-compassionate. Relapses are part of the journey, and it's okay if life gets in the way. The goal isn't to be perfect, but to be consistent in getting back on track.

Laying Strong Foundations for Sustainable Habits

So, how can you make your habits stick? The webinar highlighted three core principles:

1. Identify Your 'why'

Before you start, ask yourself: why do I care about this change? Understanding your motivation and what this new habit will bring to your life is crucial. If it's not important to you, you're unlikely to be invested. This intrinsic motivation is far more powerful than extrinsic factors like shame or guilt.

2. Create a Supportive Environment

To make a new habit accessible, you need to create a physical and mental environment that supports it. This is about making the desired action as easy as possible.

3. Plan and Prioritise

Schedule your new habits in your calendar, just like you would a meeting or appointment. This simple act of planning makes your habit a priority, rather than something you'll 'get to' if you have time. Grant shared his own practice of looking at his week on Sunday and asking, 'What's the best thing I can do this week to ensure I sustain my habit?'

By using the momentum of September to reset and re-engage with your wellbeing, you can build a springboard for consistent, sustainable change that will carry you through the autumn and beyond. What small habit will you start, stop, or continue today?