September Reset: How the GROW Model Can Help You Refocus & Reclaim Your Goals

After months of sunshine, holidays, and a more relaxed mindset, September brings with it a sense of renewal and fresh beginnings. It’s a natural time to take stock of where you are, reflect on your goals, and make intentional changes to finish the year strong.

In this post, we’ll explore why a September reset is so important for your mental health and well-being, and how you can use the GROW coaching model—a powerful framework used in life coaching—to guide you through this process. With these tools, you can break free from old habits, regain focus, and set a clear path toward the life you want to create.

Why Is a September Reset Important?

September often feels like the 'second January'—another chance to press pause and reassess. After the summer’s relaxed routines, it’s easy to feel a little disorganised or even overwhelmed as the busier months approach. It’s a pivotal moment for recalibrating both personally and professionally.

September presents a natural invitation to ask yourself reflective questions like: “What obstacles or challenges are currently preventing you from reaching your desired goal?” This is an essential first step in identifying the areas of your life that may need adjustment and the actions required to get back on track.

Moreover, if you find yourself frequently making decisions based on fear or anxiety, you might want to consider a deeper question like: “How would your life be different if you stopped letting fear make your decisions?” September is an ideal time to confront those limiting beliefs, break free from them, and focus on meaningful change.

Introducing the GROW Coaching Model for Your September Reset

One of the most effective tools for structuring your September reset is the GROW coaching model. This model, widely used in life coaching and leadership development, provides a simple yet powerful framework for helping you achieve your goals. The GROW model is broken down into four stages: Goal, Reality, Options, and Will. Let’s explore how this model can guide your reset process.

1. G – Goal Setting

The first step in your September reset is defining what you want to achieve. This could be a personal goal, like improving your mental or physical health, or a professional one, such as gaining a promotion or launching a new project. The key is to make sure your goals are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).

Ask yourself:

• What do I want to accomplish by the end of the year?

• What would success look like?

By being clear about your goals, you can create a roadmap for the months ahead. Use this opportunity to be ambitious but also realistic. September is about recalibrating, not overwhelming yourself with impossible tasks.

2. R – Reality Check

The next step is taking a honest look at where you currently are. This involves reflecting on the progress you've made so far and acknowledging any challenges or obstacles that may have thrown you off track.

Reflect on the question:

• What is my current situation, and what’s preventing me from reaching my goals?

This step may involve acknowledging uncomfortable truths. Maybe you've fallen behind on your fitness routine, or perhaps you’ve been avoiding a difficult conversation at work. Taking stock of your current reality is essential in creating a clear path forward.

3. O – Options Exploration

Once you understand your current reality, the next step is to brainstorm possible options. This is where you start exploring different strategies to overcome obstacles or push past limiting beliefs. Think creatively and don’t limit yourself to the obvious answers.

Some helpful questions to guide this stage are:

• What are all the possible ways I could achieve my goal?

• What resources, support, or tools could help me?

This stage is about generating ideas. Don’t worry yet about which one is “best”—just think broadly about your options. This could involve adopting new habits, seeking advice from a mentor, or learning a new skill. Remember, flexibility is key in this stage.

4. W – Will and Way Forward

Now it’s time to commit to action. After reflecting on your goal, assessing your current situation, and exploring your options, you’ll need to decide on the steps you’ll take to move forward. In this stage, it’s all about creating an action plan and setting clear intentions for how you’ll achieve your goals.

Ask yourself:

• What will I do first, and when will I start?

• What support or accountability do I need to stay on track?

It’s important to commit not only to the actions you’ll take but also to the mindset you’ll adopt. By being clear on your ‘why’ and aligning your actions with your values, you’ll be much more likely to stay motivated as the year progresses.

How to Apply the GROW Model for Your September Reset

Here’s how you can practically apply the GROW model to your September reset:

1. Set Clear Goals for the Rest of the Year Think about where you want to be by December. Set both short-term and long-term goals that align with your values and priorities. Focus on what truly matters, whether it's advancing your career, improving relationships, or taking better care of your mental health.

2. Take Stock of Your Current Situation Be honest with yourself about where you currently stand. Identify areas of your life where you’ve been feeling stuck or off-balance. This reflection will allow you to make informed decisions about the changes you need to make.

3. Explore Your Options for Growth Brainstorm different strategies or solutions that will help you move forward. This could involve letting go of unhelpful habits, seeking out mentorship, or dedicating more time to self-care.

4. Commit to Action Choose a starting point and create a plan of action. Make sure you’re setting yourself up for success by breaking larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks. Consider sharing your plans with someone who can help hold you accountable.

The Benefits of a September Reset Using the GROW Model

Utilising the GROW model for your September reset offers a structured yet flexible approach to regaining focus. It encourages self-reflection, helps you explore new possibilities, and allows you to create an actionable plan to achieve your goals. By resetting your priorities now, you’ll be in a much stronger position to tackle the rest of the year with clarity and purpose.

Final Thoughts: Start Your September Reset Today

A September reset is a powerful way to pause, reflect, and course-correct as you head into the final quarter of the year. Whether you’re looking to boost your productivity, improve your well-being, or gain clarity on your life’s direction, the GROW coaching model provides a framework that can guide you every step of the way.

Ready to take action? Let’s work together to create your personalised plan for success.

Book a coaching session with me today and let’s ensure you make the most of the rest of the year.