October Theory

Ever Heard of the October Theory?

October is traditionally the time to break out cool jackets, consume pumpkin-spice lattes and order your Elphaba from Wicked halloween costume from Amazon.

Dubbed "October Theory," many leaders are rethinking their approach the last quarter of the year. My companies used it as a time to reset and reprioritize both company and personal goals.

For many October can feel like an introspective time since seasons are changing, a new school year has started, and 2024 is on the highway out-of-town. October Theory is taking the place of the role New Year's (resolutions) used to own and it is catching on because it is the perfect time to reflect.

Psychologists say "hugging the past" is the key to setting new goals, building new habits, and putting ourselves on a path to personal growth. So right now, reflect on last year and make the most of the next three months.

How?

Find a cozy spot and use this month to create your very own - October Theory OPPP (One-Page Personal Plan). Your OPPP provides a framework for you to plan your personal life. Treat it like the baseline of medical and physical tests Doctors use to help patients measure where they are physically so they can focus on improving their health and wellness.

Just as there are important strategic decisions in building a thriving company, there are parallel areas in your personal life - relationships, achievements, rituals, habits and new frontiers. I encourage each of you to make the most of October Theory and the rest of October.

In the end, what matters most in life are the depth of your relationships with friends, family, business associates and the sheer number of people you have helped along the way.

Big change happens one step at a time. I know it is a cliche but true. Use October to reset and refocus and set mini-milestones to accomplish in 2025.