October Theory's parallels to Japan's year-ending practices

As we hit the last few months of the year, many people (myself included!) start reflecting on the year gone by. In the West, this season has given rise to something called the October Theory, which is essentially a self-improvement concept that could be seen as having some parallels to life here in Japan.

October Theory suggests using the final three months of the year as a gradual runway for change instead of waiting until January 1st to start fresh. October is for reflection, November is for goal-setting, and December is for habit-building. By the time the new year arrives, you've already tested your resolutions in real life, so it feels like a calmer, more sustainable approach to personal growth.

I feel like there are connections to Japan's own rhythm of renewal. As the year winds down, workplaces prepare for bonenkai parties to "forget the year," homes are deep-cleaned for osoji, and people visit shrines for hatsumode to welcome the new year. In a way, these customs share the same mindset as October Theory, to ultimately clear space (both physically and mentally!) before beginning again.