Sarah Pichardo There’s something about fall that just feels different. The air gets crisp, the days get shorter, and suddenly everything smells like pumpkin spice. Whether you’re a fan of it or not, autumn has a vibe—it’s a season of transition. And that makes it the perfect time to hit reset on your habits and routines.
Why Fall Feels Like a Fresh Start
Most people think of January as the big “new year, new me” moment, but fall has its own magic. Maybe it’s the back-to-school energy that never really leaves us, or maybe it’s the way nature itself is shifting—leaves changing, animals preparing for winter. Change is literally in the air, and it’s contagious.
The other day, I was walking through Hobby Lobby when I saw a sign that read: “Fall is a reminder that change is beautiful.” Cheesy? Maybe. But also true. Watching the leaves turn and fall off the trees is a perfect reminder that letting go isn’t always sad—it can be freeing.
6 Ways to Reset This Fall
If you’ve been craving a reset, here are five small shifts that can make a big difference:
- Adjust Your Sleep Schedule: Shorter days naturally push us to wind down earlier. Lean into it by creating a calming bedtime routine.
- Revisit Your Budget: The holidays are coming (fast). Now’s the perfect time to look at your spending, start saving, or set limits before Black Friday sneaks up on you.
- Move Your Body: Take advantage of the crisp weather. Go for a walk, hike, or bike ride—and yes, stomping through crunchy leaves totally counts as cardio.
- Declutter Your Space: Just like the trees are shedding, you can let go of stuff you don’t need. Donate clothes, reorganize your desk, or finally tackle that “junk” drawer.
- Create Cozy Routines: Light a candle, sip a warm drink, or start journaling. Simple rituals can turn everyday moments into little anchors of peace.
- Be Thankful. Fall is also the season of Thanksgiving, which makes it the perfect time to start a gratitude habit. Write down three things you’re thankful for each day, or send a quick text to someone you appreciate. Gratitude not only lifts your mood, it strengthens your connections with others too.
Let Nature (and Science) Be Your Reminder
Falling leaves are basically nature’s way of saying, “It’s okay to let go.” That habit you’ve been hanging onto but hate? That routine that isn’t serving you? Fall is a season of release, and you’re allowed to drop the dead weight.
And it’s not just about vibes—there’s actual research-backed advice that fall can help you reset. According to ComPsych’s “Seasonal Reset: Finding Focus and Flow in the Fall”, the season’s natural rhythm is the perfect time to simplify priorities, nurture connections, and practice self-compassion. In other words, fall gives you permission to slow down and refocus on what really matters.
Build Momentum for the New Year
The best part? Starting fresh in the fall means you’ll already have good momentum by the time January rolls around. Instead of scrambling to create resolutions from scratch, you’ll be building on routines you’ve already started.
Final Thought
You don’t have to wait for January 1st to reset your life. Fall is your chance to embrace change, let go of what’s not working, and create habits that feel good. So grab that pumpkin spice latte, apple cider or hot chocolate, take a deep breath, and fall into the best version of yourself.
