Let’s just be honest, when you read “the ultimate list” of things to do in October, you expect something special, something new but achievable. And how often do you get it? It’s a matter of perspective, for sure.

But for example, December brings snow, so ice-skating it is. Ice skating in December is a special thing for me. I still look forward to it every year. But I probably won’t suggest you “go ice skating” in December.

And I probably won’t write “crave your pumpkins in October”. If you’re looking for a regular list that includes things like getting lost in a corn maze and going apple picking, this list isn’t. 🙂

The ultimate list of things to do in October

Hello October! In honour of all the inspirational people and you, let’s get some positivity juices flowing with these ten inspiring suggestions.

1 Start a blog.

Wait, what? Am I realistic about this idea? You’ve heard from others it’s an expensive business to run, and I’m suggesting you do it in the middle of the crisis. Well, it’s less than your daily coffee, and if you’re passionate about content creation, it can eventually become your full-time job.

Not sure where to start? Here’s my easy step-by-step guide that includes everything you need to start a blog in a day.

2 Visit a museum.

Museum nights are special in October when it gets chilly to spend time outside. Last Friday, my son and I went to see a concert and rock ‘n’ roll through time exhibition hosted by my husband. Such a special bonding time.

3 Learn a new hobby.

Or spend more doing what you love. Is it yoga, reading books, writing, dancing, watching Netflix, cooking, or gardening? Have you wanted to play an instrument for a long time now?

When you indulge in doing what you love the most, it feels inspirational and boosts your self-confidence. While these cold days are getting darker, doing what we love the most keeps motivation on high.

4 Act of kindness.

We’re all in a big rush, and being busy running through life, we forget to care for others. People lose contact and replace hugs with virtual emoticons, and that’s the reality today. I want to remind you to care for others and be one in a million who still do that.

Bake an apple pie for your grandparents and visit your parents when they least expect to see you. When was the last time you treated someone you love with a gift? Your husband, your brother/sister, your kids? Is your neighbour old and can’t pick up the fallen leaves by himself? Offer help and if you have kids, bring them with you.

5 Treat yourself at Starbucks.

Is this a weird suggestion? 🙂 Starbucks is always so inspiring and decorated. Even though I’m not a big fan of sitting in a cafe, I do enjoy it sometimes.

6 Journal and plan your days.

If you’re busy like me and don’t want to constantly think about whether you’ve forgotten something, then journalling and planning is the right thing for you. Keep a journal daily, weekly or monthly to understand your triggers, what makes you happy the most, and what you can work on more.

7 Change your style.

My best friend, a mother of two children and a teacher, called me yesterday to help change her style. She thinks it is “boring” and needs some freshening up. When we did it in the summertime, she started many independent projects. The way you feel about yourself is quite important.

8 Eat pumpkin food for the whole day.

For the special “pumpkin day”, I’d choose warm meals for most of the day. For instance, for breakfast – pumpkin pie oatmeal, pumpkin ginger soup for lunch, pumpkin cheesecake as a snack and for dinner – spinach pumpkin lasagna. Cosy and healthy!

9 Own a pet/spend more time with your pets.

Adopting a baby Jack Russel Terrier right before my son’s about to start attending the playroom alone for the first time was not easy. But I’m proud I was able to navigate through life during that crazy month of my life.

Dealing with my son’s separation anxiety first thing in the morning and coming back to poop explosions everywhere. Oh boy. But she truly changed our lives and made the family connection stronger!

Don’t abandon your pets in a rush. Try to structure your day and give them much-needed attention. Your pet is in your life during some parts of the day, but you are in their life the whole day. Make it count!

10 Encourage yourself.

Instead of doubting your abilities, comparing your life choices and yourself with others and constantly trying to win someone in a never-ending game, discover the new you who can shine far. It only takes three steps to do it. Refuse negativism, welcome positivism, and take action.