There’s a new feeling in the air, and it’s not just because of the cooler weather. It’s a viral phenomenon that TikToker has dubbed the “October Theory.”
The term has been mentioned in more than 36 million posts on the app and has quickly become an internet sensation. But what does it mean?
Creators on TikTok have explained that when October arrives, it brings with it the urge to start over. The spooky month is also called a ‘mini January’ or a ‘second New Year’.
People may find themselves setting goals, longing for change, freshening up their space, and simply trying to get their lives back on track, just as they would when January 1st rolls around.
But there are several components that ultimately form the term “October Theory.”
The term “October Theory” has been mentioned in over 36 million posts on TikTok, and its creators have explained that when October arrives, it brings with it the urge to start over
The creators took to the platform to explain the theory, and how people find themselves setting goals, craving change, freshening up their space and simply trying to get their lives back on track, just like they would on January 1st.
With just 83 days until 2025, some have felt a compelling sense to shift into high gear as the holidays quickly approach.
‘There are only a few months left in the year, and this is getting people thinking about what has happened in their lives over the past year, what they have been doing and what changes they want to make before the year is over. Chloe Van Berkel, a TikTok user, said in a viral video that has been viewed more than 1.5 million times.
“That’s why this is a time when a lot of people are going to be making a lot of big life changes and a lot of big life decisions, and there’s going to be a lot of canon events happening at this time for a lot of people. .’
As the warm weather fades and the days grow colder and shorter, those who long for something more in their lives, like a new purpose, experience the October Theory in its full effect. Rush reported.
Brianna Paruolo, a psychotherapist and founder of On Par Therapy, echoed the viral belief, stating that there are several reasons why October feels so inspiring.
“The fall season often triggers a natural tendency toward transformation,” she told Bustle. ‘As the leaves change color and fall, we are reminded of the beauty of letting go and embracing new beginnings.’
Another reason for the change in attitude could be due to the fact that “hot girl summer” is officially over and we are now approaching “cuffing season.”
“This combination of environmental changes and societal rhythms creates a perfect storm for personal transformation,” she added. ‘This allows us to let go of old habits – much like trees shedding leaves – and cultivate new aspects of ourselves.’
Another reason for the change in attitude could be due to the fact that “hot girl summer” is officially over and we are now approaching “cuffing season.”
“Many people realize they want someone special to spend the holidays with,” Van Berkel added in her viral post.
The new season also marks the start of a new school semester, a time when relationships are broken or broken and when many companies and jobs start hiring again.
Not only can psychology support the viral theory, but astrology may also play a role in explaining the phenomenon.
Inbaal Honigman, psychic and astrologer, told Bustle that the first three weeks of October is Libra season — a season that brings a time of balance, ideas, thoughts, and planning.
Videos on TikTok have suggested that starting a new habit in October, when you’re inspired, will give you a head start in the new year
‘There are only a few months left in the year, and this is getting people thinking about what has happened in their lives over the past year, what they have been doing and what changes they want to make before the year is over. Chloe Van Berkel, a TikTok user, said in a viral video that has been viewed more than 1.5 million times
“It is not only the season of endings, but also of new beginnings,” Honigman said. ‘For example, if you leave a job that doesn’t serve you well, it will inevitably result in a better job. Saying goodbye to a toxic partner will create a better partner.”
She explained how October arrives “on the heels” of the autumnal equinox: the day of the perfect balance between light and dark.
“We enter October having said goodbye to the sunshine and hassle of longer days and accepted longer nights as the norm,” she added.
‘October is therefore the first month of darkness and helps us understand where we want to go.’
Scorpio season is the next season that starts on October 23 and lasts until November 21.
Scorpio is a water sign and water signs are ruled by Pluto, which is said to be the planet of transformation.
Honigman noted that Pluto is connected to the Death tarot card. Despite sounding dark and creepy, the card actually represents rebirth, letting go, change and letting go.
A psychotherapist and an astrologer discussed the theory and agreed there are many reasons why October is so inspiring
When October sparks creativity and the urge to transform, we are better equipped to enter Scorpio season and take the next steps to transform into a better version of ourselves.
Videos on TikTok have suggested that starting a new habit in October, when you’re inspired, will give you a head start in the new year — and Paurolo seems to agree.
“Research shows that it takes an average of 66 days for a new behavior to become automatic, although this can vary depending on the complexity of the habit and individual differences,” she added.
“If you start in October, you give yourself roughly 90 days until the new year—plenty of time to not only form a habit, but also see meaningful progress.”
But the proof can be seen in the thousands of inspiring videos posted to TikTok from people experiencing the October Theory in its full form.
“October is more of a New Year than a real New Year,” Honigman added.
So it is quite possible that in the coming weeks we will see a lot of changes and new goals, not only in others, but also in ourselves.