Note to Self // October Theory

Note to self — since October’s over, let’s take a look and see what I’ve accomplished this month. Used my planner more frequently? Check. Gone to the gym? Check. Start going on runs in the morning? Check. I am honestly surprised I got as much done as I did because there really wasn’t any motivation, except for the fact that it is October and I have seen the October Theory everywhere. 

October Theory, I learned, is an idea that something “life-changing” always happens during the month of October, changing the trajectory of the rest of the year — almost like a second version of New Years. This definitely happened to me last October. Maybe it’s a scare tactic to get people motivated, but hey, it worked on me. 

Scrolling through Instagram and seeing my favorite couples break up, I knew this October Theory was legit, and I was not about to fall victim again. I never really understood the premise of New Year’s resolutions. Why wait until the beginning of the New Year to change your lifestyle — why not just start now? Maybe something in the weather change inspired me, or maybe I just wanted to join the positive side of the October Theory — either way, I’m not complaining. 

I am very proud of myself for going to the gym more consistently, and I even have good friends who will go with me. We all want that positive lifestyle change before New Years. I saw a video saying to build good habits now because later on in life when everyone else is trying to learn these habits, we’ll be ahead of the game. This whole month has definitely seemed like a self-help podcast, but in the best way possible.

Since autumn is my favorite season, that could be a reason why I have this newfound sense of motivation. I have to be honest, though, and admit that I am not always this motivated. I have days or weeks where I just sit in bed and not do anything, but I am not here to demean myself and my accomplishments. After last October, anything is a step towards progress.

It has definitely been a struggle to create good work, lifestyle and study habits since I am in a new place, yet I think I’ve done a great job. Yes, my motivation is the Starbucks right across from my dorm, but a win is a win. Who can blame me when Starbucks has all of their fall items out right now? My next goal should definitely be to not spend all of my money on the baked apple croissant and the pecan crunch oat milk latte. I really enjoy having a supportive group of friends who have the same or similar mindset as me. My goal setting club, Aim High Association, has been a huge help, too.

I am very proud of how much I accomplished this month and I am glad all my friends and I made it through without the “canon event” taking control. I definitely will try to stay motivated and keep up this mentality. Until next time!