5 reasons September is the best month to set smart goals you’ll actually stick to, and why you should start thinking about yours now
Many people often set themselves new goals in January, as the new year symbolises a fresh start. However, a lot happens in September and it can be a month with huge ‘kick start’ potential.
Whether it be back-to-school, starting University, or simply the start of a new season, September can be a great time to set smart goals, make exciting plans, and get the fresh start you need.
it can be a month with huge ‘kick start’ potential
Healthista caught up with Jess Hillard, nutritionist from leading sports nutrition brand Warrior, who explains why…
#1 The Back-To-School Mentality
For most of our lives, September has symbolised a new beginning. Whether you are returning to university or have been working all summer, the mentality still remains.
For this reason alone, September is a great time to set smart goals and make positive changes as you adapt back into your daily routine after the summer months.
Whether it be rethinking your current life plan, getting yourself organised, starting new mindfulness practices, or simply trying to adopt a new positive mindset, September is the perfect time to draw the line and start fresh.
READ MORE: The 101 on calorie deficit – how important is it for weight loss?
#2 You may have overindulged over the summer
Many of us will spend the summer months socialising, staying out later than usual, and perhaps eating more than usual too. So, as summer ends and people return to their usual routines, you may see this as the time to adopt healthier habits.
However, many try to give up their favourite foods completely, or entirely change their diet, but it is important to make a simple change first and work your way upwards. For example, trying to increase your daily protein intake.
many try to give up their favourite foods completely, or entirely change their diet
Including more protein into your diet will keep you full for longer, meaning that you are less likely to snack excessively in between meals. A great way to do this is by introducing protein rich snacks into your diet.
I recommend Warrior CRUNCH bars or Warrior RAW flapjacks, which contain up to 20g of high-quality milk protein and less than 3g of sugar per bar.
#3 Starting now gives you a New Year head start
Many people feel pressured by others who are setting themselves goals for the new year and being vocal about how well they are doing.
Sitting down and evaluating exactly what you want to achieve before the year ends is a great way to get you in a better position and means you will not feel so impacted by others as you will have already started on your own personal journey.
READ MORE: Celebrity trainer Sarah Lindsay reveals the golden rules of goal setting
#4 Outdoor exercise is far more appealing
A common goal people set themselves, whatever the time of year, is to exercise more. In September, the weather tends to be the most preferable time to exercise outdoors and makes it a lot more appealing to keep up with a regular exercise routine.
A simple half an hour of outdoor exercise can improve fitness levels, promote weight loss and have a positive impact on your mental health.
For those who struggle to self-motivate, finding a workout buddy will make it a lot easier, as exercise will become a social activity too.
#5 Christmas is THE perfect target
September is the ideal time to set yourself new goals as it is three months away from the festive season, which gives you enough time to make healthy habits but also provides a clear target to achieve your goals.
you will go into the festive season feeling like your best self
This is not to say that leading a healthy lifestyle should be short-term, but it is often easier to stick to a strict routine if you know that there is something you are working towards, and then you can evaluate if you want to change any of your goals.
It also means you will go into the festive season feeling like your best self, rather than waiting until January!
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