September: A Month of Renewal

In her latest, September is the New January, Mel Robbins makes a compelling case for why this month is the ultimate time for goal-setting, organization, and inspiration. With her signature enthusiasm and motivational energy, Robbins captured my attention as she tapped into a truth that many of us feel but might not fully realize: September is like the unofficial start of a new year—a clean slate, with the potential to reset, recharge, and recalibrate. While listening to this episode, I had several ‘aha’ moments, and began realizing what Robbins was describing aligned with natural tendencies I have experienced year after year.

Robbins brilliantly captures the essence of September as a unique moment in the year. After the slower pace of summer, September often feels like a fresh start, even more than January. The back-to-school vibe, the cooling weather, and the shift toward fall all create an ideal atmosphere for reflection and forward thinking. Robbins argues that this transition is the perfect time to reassess your goals, reorganize your priorities, and think big about your next steps. Unlike January, which can come with a lot of pressure and high expectations, September offers a more organic opportunity to make thoughtful, sustainable changes.

Applying Parkinson’s Law to Goal-Setting

One of the most impactful ideas Robbins introduces in this episode is how Parkinson’s Law can supercharge your goal-setting process. This particular point in her show made me pause, stop, and reflect on how I currently apply this theory within my own life - both personally and professionally. Parkinson’s Law, which states that “work expands to fill the time available for its completion,” is a powerful tool when it comes to creating deadlines that ensure your goals are met. Robbins emphasizes that by imposing shorter deadlines on yourself, you force a sense of urgency, which in turn increases productivity and focus.

She explains that when you give yourself too much time to achieve a goal, you often end up procrastinating, allowing the task to stretch out longer than it needs to. By contrast, when you set tighter deadlines, you create a kind of controlled pressure that makes it easier to cut through distractions and get things done. In the context of September goal-setting, this principle is incredibly useful. As you map out your goals for the remainder of the year, imposing deadlines rooted in Parkinson’s Law can help turn lofty ideas into tangible achievements.

Clearing the Clutter

Robbins also emphasizes the importance of organization as a foundational aspect of goal-setting. September is the perfect time to clear out both physical and mental clutter, making space for new ideas and plans. By organizing your environment and your thoughts, you create a clear path forward. This organizational reset, Robbins argues, is critical to making your goals feel achievable rather than overwhelming.

Using Parkinson’s Law as a guide, Robbins suggests setting deadlines for your organizational efforts as well. For instance, if decluttering your workspace feels daunting, give yourself a strict timeframe to complete the task. Not only does this make the project more manageable, but it also aligns with the idea that a clean, organized space fosters creativity and productivity.

The September Advantage

Finally, Robbins encourages her listeners to dream big during this September reset. The combination of reflection and renewed energy makes this month the perfect time for bold ideas. Whether it’s launching a new business, starting a creative project, or setting an audacious personal goal, September provides the mental clarity and motivation needed to take those first steps.

By applying Parkinson’s Law to these big ideas, Robbins suggests that even the most ambitious goals can become achievable. The trick is to break them down into smaller tasks with tight deadlines, creating a sense of momentum and progress. Robbins’ advice here is practical and powerful: think expansively, but act decisively.

September as a Catalyst for Success

Mel Robbins’ latest podcast episode is a masterclass in how to harness the unique energy of September for goal-setting, organization, and big ideas. By leveraging the principles of Parkinson’s Law, Robbins provides a clear, actionable strategy for turning dreams into reality. If you’re ready to refocus and recharge as the year begins to wind down, this episode offers both the inspiration and the tools you need to make it happen.

After listening to this episode and reflecting on her advice, I agree that September is indeed the new January, and it’s the perfect time to set yourself up for success in the months to come.

Listen to the episode here.?https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mel-robbins-podcast/id1646101002?i=1000668424372?