The Month of October - Leading Through Change

October 01, 2025•3 min read

Compass symbolizing leadership direction in October

The Month of October: Leading Through Change

“The trees are about to show us how lovely it is to let things go.” – Unknown

Dear Leaders and Friends,

As we step into October, nature reminds us of a fundamental truth: change is not just inevitable—it’s beautiful when embraced with purpose.

Much like the vivid transformation of autumn leaves, organizations and teams go through seasons. October, nestled between the energy of September and the planning demands of year-end, is a powerful month for leaders to pause, reflect, and prepare.

🍁 Embracing Change

Leadership in October is about adaptability. It's a time to review what’s working, shed what's not, and make room for what’s next. Take cues from nature: sometimes letting go is necessary to make space for new growth.

Ask yourself:

What habits or processes have outlived their usefulness?
What feedback have I been avoiding that could help us grow?
Where can I empower others to lead during transition?

🧭 Strategic Reflection

October offers a chance to take stock before the final sprint of the year. As we ramp up this fall, it’s crucial to align your team around purpose and performance.

Consider hosting a “State of the Team” session:

Celebrate wins, both big and small.
Identify obstacles and opportunities.
Re-energize your team with a clear vision for the remainder of the year.

🔥 Leadership Mindset for Fall

Leadership is seasonal. In summer, we push; in autumn, we refine. This month, model thoughtfulness, clarity, and intentionality. The way you lead now sets the tone for how your team finishes the year.

Try this leadership challenge:

Choose one thing to stop doing this month—and one courageous conversation to start.

In Closing
October isn’t just about pumpkin spice and sweaters—it’s a reminder that letting go, reflecting, and re-centering are not signs of weakness, but of wise leadership.

Let’s lead like the trees: grounded, graceful, and unafraid to change.

If you would like me, or someone from our RLR Team, to speak or work with your school and/or school district, please contact us at www.randyrussell.org.

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We’re grateful for the incredible feedback from our community! Here’s one of the latest five-star reviews that reminds us why we do what we do.

Are you ready to develop or update your Strategic Plan in 2025-26?

Let RLR Leadership Consulting help you and your school/school district with your Strategic Planning and Goal Setting. We have the capacity to help one more district this year!

Our experts have helped dozens of schools, school districts, and businesses develop their Strategic Plans and Key Performance Indicators (KPI's) through our highly interactive and engaging process which includes all of your stakeholders.

One Washington Superintendent shared, "What sets RLR apart from others is that they bring a rare combination of strategic insight, emotional intelligence, and practical experience. As a superintendent, I seek consulting services that deliver tangible value to both the system and its students—and that was consistently delivered."

Contact us today at RLR, if you would like to learn more, or if you would like to talk with a school district or agency who has partnered with us.