We think of January as the time for new beginnings and resolutions. But let’s be honest: September is where the real action is.
September is all about fresh starts and new routines. As moms, September is when we gear up for back-to-school, get organized, and set goals for the year ahead. It’s when we can finally breathe and focus on ourselves for a hot minute.
Who needs the pressure of New Year’s resolutions when you can have a fresh start in September?
I long to declutter, clean, and reset my home and mind. Summer tends to be a free-for-all with few routines, schedules, or sense of time. We eat meals at random hours and generally only have a slight blurring between the weekdays and the weekends. All that ends when school starts.
If you are anything like me when the school year begins, you find yourself flipping through a calendar marking important days off, those early dismissals and vacation dates. Just this weekend, I realized my planner ends in December, so I had to order a new one. This is your friendly reminder to get a new planner or calendar — if you are near my age, I suspect you still use a paper one!
Create a schedule for all those sports practices, band rehearsals, recitals, and after-school activities. While you do this, look for dates you can pencil in some time for yourself. Whatever your preferred relaxing activity is, if you don’t plan for it, chances are it won’t happen. I also take this time to schedule my annual exams so that the year doesn’t go by before I know it! Same for date nights or special occasions. (And yes, I’m pausing here to acknowledge that moms carry the bulk of this mental load. Here’s when you ask your partner, in-laws, and friends to take some of the responsibility off of you.)
We need to start thinking of September as a time to focus on ourselves, rediscover our passions, and pursue our dreams. It’s a chance to reset our routines and find the balance we crave.
First and foremost, let’s prioritize self-care. We’ve spent the summer catering to our kids’ needs, but now it’s time to focus on ourselves. Whether it’s dedicating a few minutes each day for meditation, scheduling regular walks or some type of physical movement, or treating ourselves to a spa day, let’s make self-care a non-negotiable this September.
Our kids are embarking on a new adventure, and so can we. September offers a natural transition period, allowing us to reflect on the past year and decide what we want to do differently.
Additionally, the weather begins to change in September, with cooler temperatures and the arrival of fall. After another week in Mother Nature’s broiler pan, I am all about some cool rainy days. This shift in seasons brings a sense of renewal and rejuvenation, making it easier for us to embrace change. It’s like nature is telling us, “Hey mom, it’s time for a change!”
On a practical level, it’s also an excellent time to sort through your family’s seasonal gear—I’m willing to bet that last year’s coat and gloves probably no longer fit. Take a look now before you are scrambling to find warm clothing when that first frost arrives (usually by mid-October). There are usually coat drives in the fall, so hang on to whatever doesn’t fit so that you can donate them to a good cause.
And let’s remember the power of connection. September brings opportunities to meet other moms, join new organizations, and build meaningful relationships. We no longer have to feel isolated or overwhelmed. I admit to struggling with this personally—and why writer Jillian Amodio’s story this week is so relevant. We can support each other, share our struggles, and celebrate our victories.
Lastly, don’t forget to set personal goals. What is it that you’ve been longing to do? Is it starting your own business, going back to school, or learning a new skill? September is the perfect time to take that leap and pursue your passions.
Embrace the opportunities that come your way, connect with other moms on a similar journey, and let’s make this September the beginning of an incredible year for us moms. We deserve it!
Author: Kathy Knotts
Kathy Knotts is the editor of Annapolis Moms Media. She has over 20 years experience writing for local and regional media organizations. She is a native of Louisiana and loves good books, good coffee, good wine and good food.
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