September is the new January: This is why now is the time to rethink your goals

For some, it feels like we’re just riding the tail end of summer break; for others, it’s already a distant memory. Whether your mind is still wandering the beaches of Europe or staring at the reality of your work desk, we’re all in the same boat now.

Life moves quickly, and the fact that it’s already September means things are about to go into overdrive. To make sure the rest of the year doesn’t slip away, I believe in setting personal and professional targets; little anchors to help you feel in control of where you’re headed.

Step 1: Assess how far you’ve come

After any holiday or long break, I like to sit alone, or sometimes with my children – and reflect on the best moments we’ve had so far. Post-summer, we do a little “reboot and reset,” thinking about the experiences and lessons that stood out most. With that foundation, we open our minds with optimism about what’s ahead.

It’s easy to hit the halfway mark of the year feeling run down or burnt out. But I love this mid-year reset because it allows you to pause and clearly see what’s gone well and where you’re headed.

Try making a list of everything you’ve learned since January. Be open, grateful, and reflective, and you might also notice the gaps or opportunities you still want to fill.

Step 2: Set clear goals and targets

The next step is to outline goals on both the professional and personal fronts.

At work, think about how you want to manage year-end deadlines, holiday parties, and vacation planning before it all blends into one big blur. Decide what’s truly important and prioritise those.

On the personal side, consider the goals you have for yourself, your family, and your relationships. This isn’t just something to do in January with New Year’s resolutions – it’s equally important mid-year. Set achievable targets you’d like to reach by December 31. Do this alone, with a partner, or as a family. You’ll be surprised how much alignment it creates when everyone is on the same page.

I often notice people reaching out for coaching not at the start of the year but towards the end, when burnout hits. Instead of waiting until you feel overwhelmed, try this exercise now. Give yourself the clarity and motivation to end the year strong.

Step 3: Create the right environment

Goals are only achievable when you’re in the right environment. That means checking in on your physical and mental health.

Does that look like sticking to a workout routine, getting enough sleep, distancing from draining relationships, or simply making space for things that matter most?

Your home plays a key role. At the end of the day, it should feel like a sanctuary where you can recharge. Think of your space not just for yourself, but for everyone in it.

A nurturing environment is one filled with love, kindness, health, nourishing food, rest, and movement. When those pieces are in place, external stressors feel easier to manage.

Moving forward

So, as we say goodbye to summer bikinis – though in Singapore we can wear them year-round – it’s time to shift gears.

The last stretch of the year can easily snowball into a blur of festivities, deadlines, and personal pressures. But before that whirlwind begins, pause to assess where you are and map out a framework for the months ahead.

Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

Shireena Shroff Manchharam is a Her World Tribe member, the founder and principal consultant of Sheens Consulting, and the founder and creator of Getting To Happy, a mental health movement to inspire our community and society to live happier, more mindful lives.