TikTokers explain the phenomenon of 'October Theory' and why it will forever change your view of fall

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

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

Creators on TikTok have explained that when October rolls around, it brings the urge along with it to start fresh. The spooky month has been referred to as a 'mini January' or a 'second New Year's'.

People may find themselves setting goals, craving change, refreshing their space and simply attempting to get their life together just like they would when January 1 hits.

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

With only 83 days until 2025, some have experienced the compelling feeling to kick into high gear as the holidays quickly approach.

'There's only a couple of months left in the year, and this kind of gets people thinking about what's been going on in their life this past year, what they've been doing and what changes they want to make before the year is over,' Chloe Van Berkel, a user on TikTok, said in a viral video that has accumulated over 1.5 million views.

'Because of that, this is a time when a lot of people are going to be making a lot of big life changes and a lot of major life decisions, and a lot of canon events will be happening for a lot of people at this time.'

As the warm weather leaves and the days begin to get colder and shorter, those who are itching for something more in their life, such as a new goal, are experiencing October Theory in its full effect, Bustle reported.

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

'The autumn season often sparks a natural inclination for transformation,' she told Bustle. 'As the leaves change color and fall, we're reminded of the beauty in letting go and embracing new beginnings.'

'This combination of environmental changes and societal rhythms creates a perfect storm for personal transformation,' she added. 'Allowing us to shed old habits - just 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're now approaching 'cuffing season'. 

'A lot of people are realizing that they want a special someone to be spending the holidays with,' Van Berkel added in her viral post.

The new season also means the start of a new school semester, a time of relationship make-up or break-ups and when many companies and jobs start hiring again.

Not only can psychology back up the viral theory, but astrology may also play a part explaining the phenomenon.

Inbaal Honigman, a psychic and astrologer, told Bustle that the first three weeks of October are Libra season - a season that brings along a time of balance, ideas, thoughts and planning.

'It is not only 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 showing up. Saying goodbye to a toxic partner will draw in a better one.'

She explained how October arrives 'hot on the heels' of the Autumn Equinox -  the day of perfect balance between light and dark.

'We enter October already having waved goodbye to the sunshine and frolics of the 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 be.'

Scorpio season is the next to arrive, starting from October 23 and lasting 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 eerie, the card actually represents rebirth, release, change and letting go.

When October sparks creativity and the urge to transform, we are better equipped to head into Scorpio season and take the next steps to change into a better version of ourselves.

Videos on TikTok have pointed out that starting a new habit in October when inspired gives you a head start into the new year - and Paurolo seems to agree with those folks.

'Research suggests that it takes an average of 66 days for a new behavior to become automatic, though this can vary depending on the complexity of the habit and individual differences,' she added.

'By beginning in October, you're giving yourself roughly 90 days until the new year - ample time to not only form a habit but to start seeing meaningful progress.' 

But the evidence can be seen through 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 actual New Year,' Honigman added.

So we very well may see loads of change and new goals in the coming weeks, not only in others, but in ourselves.