Feeling Behind This September? You’re Not Alone
September can feel like a fresh start for some, but not everyone feels motivated. If you feel behind or stuck this autumn, here’s why it’s okay, and how to move forward gently.
When September arrives, many people talk about “new beginnings.” The fresh school year, the change in season, and the final stretch of the year often make it feel like a second January. It’s common to see posts about starting new projects, getting motivated, and finally ticking off those New Year’s resolutions before December arrives.
But what happens if you don’t feel that way?
What if, instead of feeling inspired, you feel stuck… or behind?
The Pressure of “Fresh Starts”
September can bring a lot of unspoken pressure. Social media makes it seem like everyone is moving forward; building businesses, getting fit, starting hobbies, or reinventing themselves. If you’re not in that headspace, it’s easy to think:
“Why don’t I feel ready?”
“Am I falling behind in life?”
“What’s wrong with me?”
The truth is, there’s nothing wrong with you. Not everyone greets September with excitement and motivation and that’s okay.
Why You Might Feel Behind
Feeling “behind” often comes from comparing your journey to others. You might notice people starting new things and wonder why you don’t have that energy. But we rarely see the full picture. What looks like progress on the outside might be hiding struggles underneath.
For many people, this time of year can actually feel heavy. Shorter days, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), or simply the exhaustion of the year so far can make September feel less like a new beginning and more like a reminder of unfinished goals.
Reframing September
Here’s the truth: September doesn’t have to be about fresh starts. It doesn’t have to mean reinventing yourself or committing to something big.
Instead, September can be about:
🍂 Rest: allowing yourself to pause and recharge.
🍂 Reflection: looking back at what you’ve already achieved this year (even the small things).
🍂 Gentle care: taking one step at a time toward what you need, not what others are doing.
Growth doesn’t always look like big leaps forward. Sometimes it’s quiet, slow, and almost invisible, but it’s still happening.
You’re Not Failing
If you’re reading this and feeling “behind,” please hear this: you are not failing. You are not broken. You are simply human, moving at your own pace.
Your worth is not measured by how many goals you tick off before the year ends. It’s measured by your ability to show up for yourself, even in small ways.
As autumn begins, give yourself permission to experience September in your own way. Whether that’s starting something new, continuing as you are, or resting completely, your path is valid.
You don’t need to chase the same timeline as everyone else. You are exactly where you’re meant to be.
If you would like to explore these feelings, I am currently accepting new clients. Contact me on lauragomez.therapy@gmail.com to make a start.
