The crisp air of fall is settling in, signaling the shift from lazy summer days to the organized chaos of back-to-school routines. Whether you’re preparing your kids or yourself for new schedules, early bedtimes, or an empty nest, fall brings both challenges and opportunities. As we shoulder the extra expenses for school supplies and clothes, and perhaps hope last year’s jeans still fit, we’re also reminded by the earlier sunsets that the days are growing shorter.

Fall’s natural rhythm of routine-building makes it the perfect time to reset your goals. Yet many of us wait until January to set lofty resolutions, only to feel disappointed when we lose track. But why wait? September is the ideal moment to reflect on how you want to finish the year strong.

Research shows that the average person holds onto their New Year’s resolutions for just 3.6 months before moving on or abandoning them altogether. From September to the end of the year, you have nearly four months to achieve meaningful goals and develop the winner’s mindset that comes with success.

By contrast, January resolutions are often burdened with the emotions of overindulgence, family pressures, and the exhaustion of holiday obligations. We set ambitious goals when we’re drained, financially stretched, and lacking the energy to create a real plan. This sets us up for failure, continuing the cycle of broken resolutions.

September offers a fresh start. Just as we pack away summer clothes and pull-out fall and winter gear, we can exchange old habits for new, healthier ones. Fall is a time of transition—letting go of what no longer serves us, much like the trees shed their leaves. It’s an opportunity to confidently embrace change and set the stage for success heading into the holidays.

Whether you’re thinking of hiring a coach, joining a challenge, or committing to a program, there are plenty of ways to build new habits and achieve your goals. But how do you know which option is right for you? Here’s how to decide:

• Coaching offers personalized accountability and guidance. With weekly or bi-weekly sessions, a coach helps you turn your goals into actionable steps with measurable milestones. If you need extra support and someone to hold you accountable, coaching might be the best fit.
• Challenges are fun, goal-oriented group activities. They might involve working out twice a week, preparing for a 5K, or focusing on mindful eating during the holidays. Challenges typically have structured sessions and can include accountability partners. They’re great if you want to focus on a specific area with a clear, guided path.
• Programs are structured routines that target a specific or broad topic. They are often strict in their approach, with little room for variance. Whether in-person or online, self-paced or instructor-led, programs like a 4-week weight loss challenge provide clear guidance with frequent check-ins and measurable results, such as weight loss.

All of these options have their place, but finding the right one for you is key. Ask yourself: In what environment do I thrive? Do I need a coach for personalized support, or would I prefer a structured program to follow? By being honest with yourself, you can set realistic goals and avoid the disappointment of inconsistency—and the frustration of asking yourself, “Why did I do this?”