TikTokers Explain the 'October Theory' Phenomenon and Why It Will Forever Change Their View of Fall

There's a new feeling in the air, and it's not just the colder weather. It's a viral phenomenon that TikTokers have dubbed the 'October Theory'.

The term has already been mentioned in more than 36 million posts on the app, quickly becoming an internet sensation. But what does this mean?

TikTok creators explained that when October arrives, it brings with it the desire to start fresh. The spooky month has been referred to as a “mini January” or a “second New Year.”

People may find themselves setting goals, desiring change, renovating their space, and simply trying to organize their lives as they would when January 1st arrives.

But there are different components that ultimately make up the term “October Theory”.

The creators used the platform to explain the theory and how people can find themselves setting goals, desiring change, renovating their space, and simply trying to organize their lives as they would when January 1st arrives.

With just 83 days until 2025, some have experienced the compelling sensation of picking up the pace as the holidays quickly approach.

“There are only a few months left until the end of the year, and it makes people think about what happened in their lives last year, what they did, 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 racked up more than 1.5 million views.

'Because of this, this is a time when many people will make many big changes in their lives and many important decisions in their lives, and many canonical events will happen for many people at this time. .'

As the warm weather passes and the days begin to get colder and shorter, those who are yearning for something more in their lives, like a new goal, are experiencing the October Theory in its full effect. Bustle reported.

Brianna Paruolo, psychotherapist and founder of On Par Therapy, reiterated the viral belief, stating that there are several reasons why October feels so inspiring.

“The fall season often sparks a natural inclination toward transformation,” she tells 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 the fact that 'hot girl summer' is officially over and we are now approaching 'fist season'.

“This combination of environmental changes and social rhythms creates a perfect storm for personal transformation,” he added. 'Allowing us to shed old habits – just as trees shed leaves – and cultivate new aspects of ourselves.'

Another reason for the change in attitude could be the fact that “hot girl summer” is officially over and we are now approaching “fist season.”

“Many people are realizing they want someone special to spend the holidays with,” Van Berkel added in her viral post.

The new season also means the beginning of a new academic semester, a time of readjustments or breakups of relationships and when many companies and jobs start hiring again.

Not only can psychology support the viral theory, but astrology can also play a role in explaining the phenomenon.

Inbaal Honigman, psychic and astrologer, tells Bustle that the first three weeks of October are Libra season — a season that brings with it a time of balance, ideas, thoughts, and planning.

Videos on TikTok have pointed out that starting a new habit in October, when inspired, gives you a head start heading into the new year

“There are only a few months left until the end of the year, and it makes people think about what happened in their lives last year, what they did, 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 racked up more than 1.5 million views

“It’s not just the season of endings, but also of new beginnings,” Honigman said. 'For example, giving up a job that doesn't serve you well will inevitably result in a better job coming along. Saying goodbye to a toxic partner will attract a better partner.

She explained how October arrives “right after” the Autumnal Equinox – the day of perfect balance between light and dark.

“We enter October already saying goodbye to the sun and the fun of longer days and accepting longer nights as the norm,” she added.

'October is therefore the first month of darkness and helps us understand where we want to be.'

Scorpio season is next to arrive, starting October 23rd and lasting until November 21st.

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 appearing dark and mysterious, the card actually represents rebirth, liberation, change and letting go.

A psychotherapist and an astrologer weighed in on the theory, agreeing that there are many reasons why October is so inspiring

When October awakens creativity and the desire for transformation, we are better equipped to enter Scorpio season and take the next steps to transform into a better version of ourselves.

Videos on TikTok point out that starting a new habit in October, when inspired, gives you a head start for the new year – and Paulo seems to agree with these people.

“Research suggests 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.

“By starting in October, you'll have about 90 days until the new year – enough time to not only create a habit, but also to start seeing significant progress.”

But the proof can be seen in the thousands of inspiring videos posted on TikTok of people experiencing the October Theory in its full form.

“October is more of a New Year than the New Year itself,” Honigman added.

Therefore, we may very well see many changes and new goals in the coming weeks, not just in others, but in ourselves.