How to Have a Fall Reset (+Free Checklist!)

As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s a natural sense of change that autumn brings. It’s the perfect time for a reset, especially after the busy summer months.

This season invites us to slow down, reflect, and prepare for the months ahead. But how do you go about having a proper fall reset?

Let’s dive into some practical tips to help you feel refreshed, organized, and ready to take on the rest of the year.

Common Mistakes You Might Make When Trying to Reset

Before we jump into the checklist, let’s quickly go over some common mistakes people make when trying to reset.

These slip-ups can easily derail your progress, so it’s good to keep them in mind.

Trying to Change Your Personality

A reset is all about adjusting your daily habits and lifestyle, not reinventing who you are.

The goal isn’t to become a brand-new person overnight but to refine and improve areas of your life that need attention. Be gentle with yourself and don’t try to force personality changes that feel unnatural.

Spending Money Where It’s Not Needed

It’s tempting to spend money on new gadgets, clothes, or decor in the name of a reset, but be mindful.

Sometimes a reset is more about using what you already have and making small, meaningful changes. Don’t feel pressured to buy things you don’t need—true change comes from within.

Expecting Perfection

Perfection is the enemy of progress. You don’t need to have everything perfectly organized or mapped out to have a successful fall reset.

Allow room for flexibility and recognize that it’s okay if things don’t go exactly as planned.

How to Have The Ultimate Fall Reset

Now that we’ve covered what not to do, let’s get into the good stuff.

Here’s your ultimate fall reset checklist to help you realign your life and embrace the new season with energy and focus.

1. Sell Your Old Clothes

The change of season is the perfect excuse to clean out your wardrobe. Go through your summer clothes and see what you no longer wear.

Websites like eBay, Depop, or local charity shops are great places to sell or donate those items.

Not only will you create space, but you might make a little extra cash in the process!

2. Invest in Good Lighting

With the days getting shorter, it’s time to think about how lighting affects your mood and productivity. Did you know that a decrease in natural sunlight can negatively impact your mood?

One of my favourite autumn hacks is to invest in a sunlight lamp or alarm clock. These lamps fill your home with natural sunlight (or as natural as it can be!) which can offset the effects of shorter, darker days.

I personally love this sunlight alarm clock but there are tons out there to choose from.

3. Create a 3-Month Self-Improvement Plan

Fall is a fantastic time to set some personal development goals.

A 3-month plan is manageable and helps you stay focused on short-term improvements. Whether it’s learning a new skill, exercising more, or focusing on mental well-being, map out your goals and break them down into small, actionable steps.

Then, create a self-improvement plan that you can use to keep motivated and stay on track. Check out our guide on how to create a self improvement plan that will help you to become that best version of yourself.

4. Do Some Self-Discovery

Take some time to reflect on where you are in life and where you want to go.

Self-discovery isn’t just for the New Year; fall is an ideal time to reassess your priorities. Whether through journaling, meditation, or taking personality tests, dig deeper into what makes you tick and how you can live more authentically.

A great place to start is to use these 100 questions to get to know yourself better.

5. Establish 3 Personal Goals for the Next 3 Months

To avoid feeling overwhelmed, focus on just three main goals for the next few months.

These could be personal, professional, or health-related. Writing them down and regularly checking your progress can help you stay on track without feeling scattered.

You might like: How to stay consistent with your goals

6. Create a Healthy Morning Routine

A morning routine can set the tone for your entire day.

As the weather changes, consider adjusting your routine to suit the new season. Maybe you add in 10 minutes of journaling or start your day with a brisk walk in the crisp autumn air.

A consistent morning routine will help you feel more grounded and productive throughout the day.

7. Clean Your Living Space

There’s something so refreshing about cleaning and organizing your home during fall.

Dust off the corners, rearrange your furniture, and get rid of any clutter that’s accumulated over the summer. I personally love to wash my sofa covers, clean the carpets and give the kitchen a good deep clean at this time of year!

A clean space leads to a clear mind and will help you feel more in control as the season unfolds.

8. Invest in Seasonal Candles and Scents

Sometimes a simple change in your environment can make all the difference in how you feel.

Invest in a few autumn-scented candles or essential oils to make your space cozier. Scents like cinnamon, apple, and pumpkin can instantly elevate your mood and make your home feel warm and inviting.

9. Start Practicing Daily Gratitude

Gratitude is a powerful tool for mental well-being. Find a daily gratitude practice that resonates with you and helps you to feel a little happier each day. It doesn’t have to be anything major—small joys count too, like a delicious cup of coffee or a chat with a friend.

Focusing on the positive will help you keep a balanced perspective as the weather turns colder.

10. Invest in a Self-Help Book

If you’re looking to grow or improve in certain areas of your life, a good self-help book can be a game-changer. There are so many fantastic reads out there that can offer guidance on everything from personal development to mental well-being.

Find one that resonates with your current goals and use it as a tool for your fall reset.

My Top Tips for a Successful Fall Reset

Before we wrap up, here are a few extra tips to ensure your fall reset is as effective as possible.

1. Make Time for Reflection

Regularly reflecting on your progress can help you stay aligned with your goals. Take a moment each week to assess how things are going, what’s working, and where you might need to adjust.

2. Stay Consistent, But Flexible

The key to success is consistency, but don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t always go to plan. Life happens, and it’s important to stay adaptable while keeping your long-term vision in mind.

3. Enjoy the Process

A reset should feel refreshing, not stressful.

Don’t rush through it or put too much pressure on yourself. Take your time and enjoy the journey—you’ll feel much more accomplished when you look back at how far you’ve come.

Fall is a season of transformation, and there’s no better time to hit the reset button on your life.

By following these simple tips and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to feeling renewed and ready to embrace whatever comes next.

So, grab a cozy blanket, light that pumpkin-scented candle, and get started on your fall reset today!