Every year, it seems to happen a little earlier Before August is even over, our minds are already racing ahead. Many of us are mentally making lists of everything that needs to get done as we anticipate obligations and packed calendars. 

Our bodies may still be enjoying summer, but our minds have already moved on. However, if the anxiety of planning ahead becomes too much, our bodies too will follow, and that relaxed feeling of summer slips away. 

As a therapist, I often remind clients that anxiety has a habit of stealing the present by convincing us we need to solve tomorrow’s problems today. Planning is healthy. Living in the future isn’t.

If you notice yourself getting caught in “September thinking,” try these strategies:

Notice where your mind is. Pause and ask yourself, “Is there actually a problem I need to solve today, or am I borrowing tomorrow’s stress?” Simply recognizing the difference can quiet an anxious mind. Write a “brain dump” list of your worries and walk away for 20 minutes. This allows you to put some space between the thoughts and anxious feelings. When you return to the list, chances are you’ll have gained some perspective and be better able to decide what you need to do now and what you can shelve for later. 

Separate planning from worrying. For the tasks that really do need your attention, set aside 20 minutes to make a plan. Once you’ve done that, give yourself permission to return to today instead of rehearsing the same thoughts over and over.

Anchor yourself in the present. When your mind jumps ahead, gently bring your attention back to what you can see, hear, or feel right now. Our nervous system settles when we reconnect with the present moment instead of imagined future scenarios.

Protect what fills your cup. As September approaches, don’t rush to fill every remaining day with chores and preparation. Make room for the things that genuinely restore you; whether that’s time with family, a quiet morning coffee, a good conversation, or simply an evening with nowhere to be.

September will arrive whether you spend August worrying about it or enjoying it. My hope is that you’ll give yourself permission to fully experience the season you’re in. Sometimes the best preparation for what’s ahead is allowing yourself to be fully present today.