Close lid securely into the lock position. Make sure the vent is also in the closed position. Pressure cook on low for 8-10 minutes or using the poultry setting. Quick release.
Carefully unlock lid. Remove chicken and place on cutting board to rest for 5 minutes. Shred using 2 forks or in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Reserve broth for soups.
Pizza night is nothing to play around with — you like your plain, deep dish pizza and that's it. But, what if there's a creative pizza recipe that you haven't tried and is destined to be your fave? It's time to branch out and experiment with unusual toppings and buttery naan crust. Naan bread is *so* easy to use as a base for your pies, and you can top it with anything you like. To get major dinner inspo (and beyond), check out the naan pizza recipes below.
Alanna Taylor-Tobin for Masala & Meatballs
Master the recipe for a simple naan bread, and you will have the base to any pizza you can dream of.
The Creative Bite
Naan cooks up to a nice crispy crust when you make it in the air fryer.
Laughing Spatula
You can make this smoked salmon naan bread for an impressive brunch.
Sidewalk Shoes
Fig jam brings a little sweetness to this naan pizza, helping to smooth out the gamey saltiness of prosciutto. Sprinkle on some walnuts for crunch, and you’ve got a textural masterpiece for dinner.
The Last Food Blog
If you're vegetarian but miss the flavor kick of pepperoni, try loading your naan pizza with bold toppings like olives, pesto, red pepper flakes, and grilled artichokes. Toasted pine nuts, chopped parsley, and a spritz of lemon juice finish the whole thing off.
What Should I Make For
Blue cheese has a strong flavor that can overwhelm other ingredients, but it’s well met here by sweet figs and peppery arugula. A drizzle of vinaigrette on top makes every last bite pop.
Peas and Crayons
Roasting cherry tomatoes amplifies their flavor. They’re the star of this pizza, joined by spinach, milky mozzarella, and garlic.
Averie Cooks
Putting raw dough on the grill can lead to a huge mess. Get that char you love without having to worry about fire hazards by using naan as your pizza base, which will stay firm while your ingredients cook instead of dripping through your grill grates.
Peas and Crayons
Fresh tomatoes, basil, and fresh mozzarella top these pizzas. A thin layer of tomato sauce keeps the naan base from drying out, and a balsamic drizzle ties all of the flavors together.
Hello Veggie
Swap tomatoes for peaches to make a unique naan margherita pizza that celebrates sunshine. Pair with a bottle of rosé and you’ll get total staycation vibes.
Foxes Love Lemons
Two surefire ways to make eating salad for lunch more exciting: Go with a Cobb, and serve it on grilled naan.
Recipe Runner
Smoky, spicy tandoori chicken tops this pizza, accentuated by the crunch of vegetable ribbons and toasted cashews.
She Likes Food
When it’s too hot to turn on the oven (or you just don’t feel like cooking), throwing together this hummus pizza is your best bet. A soft naan base topped with a creamy chickpea spread and crunchy, colorful veggies is a refreshing, nourishing meal.
The Rustic Foodie
We can’t think of a better way to get in our daily veggies than roasting them and using them to top a naan pizza. Well, a little mozzarella doesn’t hurt either.
Bowl of Delicious
No sauce? No problem! Make a white pizza that showcases the beauty of a simple sautéed vegetable topping.
Show Me The Yummy
Their salty, smoky flavor can stand up to any cocktail or beer, so if you want leftovers, you should probably double this recipe.
The Recipe Critic
Be prepared for a flavor explosion that will blow your mind. From the tangy peanut sauce base to the rich coconut cream that’s drizzled on top, this Thai pizza has a delicious surprise in every bite.
Host the Toast
So, you can't decide between ordering pizza and your favorite Indian takeout? Combine the two at a fraction of the cost by making this tandoori chicken naan pizza at home. We especially love how the mango and fresh herbs brighten up the flavors of the spicy chicken.
The Blond Cook
Word to the wise… once you try this pizza your standards for all others will be very high. To make it extra special, try drizzling the top with homemade Thousand Island dressing.
Joyful Healthy Eats
If you’ve never had a sauceless pizza, now is the opportunity to change that. When that first juicy cherry tomato bursts in your mouth, you’ll experience a level of flavor that’s low-key mind blowing.
Bowl of Delicious
We dare you to find a better way to use up your leftover BBQ chicken. Just be sure you don’t add too much sauce to the pizza so that your crust doesn’t get soggy.
Smile Sandwich
Don't be a pizza hog. Pick up some mini naan flatbreads, and suddenly your go-to individual pizza becomes a tantalizing dinner for everyone.
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This post has been updated.
Gretchen Weiners' hair might be full of secrets in Mean Girls, but in Amanda Seyfried's new movie, her life is full of secrets. The Housemaid, based on the novel by Freida McFadden, follows Millie (played by Sydney Sweeney), who's down on her luck and in desperate need of a fresh start. When she snags a job as a housemaid in Nina's (Amanda Seyfried) beautiful home, it looks like things are finally moving in her favor. But all is not as it seems — and it doesn't take long for Millie to realize Nina's secrets are the most dangerous thing about her.
The book, which has sold over 3.6 million copies, has been on the New York Times Bestseller list for over a year and Amazon's Bestsellers list for 98 weeks (talk about popular). It was also the second-most-read title on Kindle for their 10th anniversary, so it's no surprise that the story is getting its own adaptation. Here's everything you need to know about The Housemaid starring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried,
Yes, Deadline announced on October 8 that The Housemaid would become a film, thanks to Hidden Pictures and Lionsgate. Paul Feig will direct, Rebecca Sonnenshine will write the script, and Todd Lieberman, Laura Fischer, and Feig will produce while Alex Young, author Freida McFadden, Sydney Sweeney, and Amanda Seyfried will executive produce.
“I’m thrilled to have The Housemaid join our upcoming slate,” said Adam Fogelson, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. “A great filmmaker and a great cast with a great script from a great book is a terrific place to start.”
“Part of the fun of the book was imagining the cast while we read it, and Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried are perfect for Millie and Nina – they’re both mysterious, nuanced, and incredibly skilled at becoming characters who don’t reveal everything right away,” said Erin Westerman, co-president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group.
Jon Kopaloff/Andreas Rentz/Getty Images
The cast of The Housemaid will be led by Sydney Sweeney (Euphoria, Anyone But You) as Millie and Amanda Seyfried (Mamma Mia!, The Drop Out) as Nina. Check back here for the rest of the official cast list!
"I hope [die-hard fans of the book] accept this casting," Seyfried jokes in an interview with Bustle. "I know Sydney's amazing...I can't wait to work with her. I think we're going to have a lot of fun. But also, like, I don't know how people see Nina, my character...I hope they like the casting because the fans are the reason it's being made. So I'm here to tell all the fans that I'm gonna do you well."
"I can’t even express how excited I am to announce that #TheHousemaidMovie is coming soon!!!" McFadden said in an Instagram post. "@Lionsgate has come up with the absolute perfect cast and director, and I am just so grateful! I mean, Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, and Paul Feig…mind blown!!!! I’m so honored and thankful to all my readers who helped make this dream come true!!!!!"
Amazon
Millie has one more chance at starting over, and taking a job as a housemaid for wealthy couple Nina and Andrew is the perfect place to start. But as she cleans, cooks, and takes care of their daughter, Millie quickly realizes her employers are far from perfect — even if they'll do anything to keep up appearances.
Image via Tima Miroshnichenko/Pexels
We don't have an official release date for The Housemaid yet, but there's a good chance we could see it in 2025. Stay tuned for more news!
Amazon
Freida McFadden has three books in The Housemaid series: The Housemaid, The Housemaid's Secret, and The Housemaid is Watching.
Image via hubbugaye/Pexels
There is some sex and violence in The Housemaid, but it's not as overwhelming as some other popular books on the market. One Goodreads user compares the content to what you'd watch in Law & Order: SVU or Criminal Minds. If you're concerned about one of your preteens reading this book, you could always read it first, or start a bookclub and read it together!
Read The 17 Best Mystery And Thriller Books For All Readers while it's still spooky season!
If you're throwing a tapas party and don't want to spend the entire night in the kitchen, look no further than these tapas recipes. They're yummy small plates of food to be shared among your guests. These smaller servings, typically of unique cuisines, can be a great way to try something new and really impress your foodie friends that always want a little bite!
Most of these tapas recipes come together in no time, which can be super helpful if you lean toward procrastinating the daunting task of hosting. To get you started, we've got the 56 best easy and authentic Spanish tapas ideas. And don't forget — these babies taste even better when paired with a pitcher of sangria!
Sascha Weber / PEXELS
The three types of tapas include cosas de picar (finger foods), pinchos (which require something like a toothpick to eat), and cazuelas (little dishes served in a sauce).
Valeria Boltneva / PEXELS
Tapas foods are usually served in smaller portions, but they're all delicious. You can serve everything from olives and fried cheese to chorizo and sweet baked churro chips.
RDNE Stock Project / PEXELS
There are a variety of foods you can serve at a tapas party, but our favorite tapas menu includes jalapeño poppers, fried cheese, savory canapés, and stuffed olives. We love a fig and bacon jam crostini, too!
Plant Provisions
The only thing better than a new pizza recipe is when that pizza is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. These pies are totally delicious and feature a mouthwatering mix of vegan sausage, vegan cheese, and potatoes. (via Plant Provisions for Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Steer away from tradition by making some churros into chips. They’re easy to make in big batches, and they’re even easier to dip into mocha-fudge sauce, caramel sauce or whipped cream. The fact that they're on the sweeter side is a great for switching things up in the tapas department. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
A salty Triscuit cracker, paired with refreshing cucumber and bright mint? Sign us up, like, right now. This quick recipe makes for a refreshing tapa that your guests are sure to enjoy. (via Brit + Co)
Forks & Foliage
Your tapas menu just got a serious upgrade with this recipe. The peppers get blistered over high heat for some massive flavor, then team up with some burrata and olive oil to mellow out the spice. (via Forks & Foliage for Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Sweet meets savory in this top-tier tapas recipe. The skewered meat + fruit allows for such easy snacking! (via Brit + Co)
Parmigiano Reggiano
You'd be surprised at just how well sharp cheese and dark chocolate work together! This is definitely one of the most unique tapas recipes we've ever tried, but the combo is so worth it. (via Parmigiano Reggianofor Brit + Co)
Forks & Foliage
Moussaka, a tasty compilation of eggplants, garlic, onion, and chickpeas, is an unforgettable tapas menu item. It's vegan by nature, and meant to be served cold for hot summer days! (via Forks & Foliage for Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
The cherry tomatoes and spicy chili flakes in this tapas food will taste amazing together, especially when you have cheese to cut the tart spice! (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Everyone will be in a twist over how tasty these pastry snacks are! (via Brit + Co)
Ron Lach / PEXELS
Baked brie is one of the best finger foods to share with your friends. Make sure everyone gets a bite by setting out a baked brie platter complete with crackers, chips, honey, and jam. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Stuffed mushrooms are one of the best tapas recipes around, because they're painfully easy to make. They're also easily customizable via the filling, so you can switch it up each time depending on the occasion or theme of the get-together you're going to. (via Brit + Co)
The Edgy Veg
Everyone will want a bite from this colorful grazing platter. It's got veggies, it's got fruit, it's got nuts. You can also add in vegan cheeses, mushrooms, hummus — whatever floats your boat. (via The Edgy Veg)
The Endless Meal
This bite may look super involved and fancy, but we promise you it's as simple as tapas recipes get. Sear some fresh tuna before using it to top cucumber slices that pair with a delicious homemade tapenade. (via The Endless Meal)
Spanish Sabores
This spinach and chickpea stew is popular in Seville, Spain. Aside from the delicious flavors, the best part about this recipe is definitely the fact that it only takes half an hour to make! The ingredients are all healthy, too, which allows you to eat as much as you'd like to. (via Spanish Sabores)
My Modern Cookery
These honey-drizzled skewers embody the rich, fresh flavors of Spanish foods. They're a total fireworks show in your mouth. The best part is there is absolutely no cooking required! They're so easy to put together and can be customized to you and your guests' preferences. (via My Modern Cookery)
The Edgy Veg
For a rounding out a delicious and savory tapas menu, you can't go wrong with these cheese-stuffed garlic bites! They're super easy to make, and you can pair them with any dipping sauce. (via The Edgy Veg)
Barley & Sage
Smear goat cheese on some toasted baguette slices, add bacon jam and fig slices, and drizzle with honey (or hot honey) to make these tapas. This fresh flavor combination is nothing like you've ever tasted before. It's sure to wow your guests, due its delectable and complex flavor palette. (via Barley & Sage)
Spain on a Fork
This simple lemon-garlic shrimp is sure to satisfy. Serve with toothpicks for spearing or crusty baguette slices for dipping. P.S. this is a great dish to pair with some white wine! (via Spain on a Fork)
Half Baked Harvest
This recipe using potatoes, eggs, fresh herbs, prosciutto, and burrata is the perfect addition to your tapas dinner party menu. It's simple to make, but the flavors are oh-so complex. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Cilantro and Citronella
Croquetas de jamón, AKA logs of ham coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden, are easy to find at most tapas bars in Spain. These bites are filled with mushrooms and made with non-dairy milk, so even your vegan friends can enjoy them! (via Cilantro and Citronella)
Chef Bai
These cornbread tapas are made with squash to boost your bite with tons of nutritional value, and their size makes them the perfect finger food for sharing with others. They're sweet, yet super savory! (via Chef Bai)
Cilantro Parsley
This tapas recipe originates from old Spanish tradition of finding ways to reuse crusty bread. Adding tomato and olive oil will soften up your crust to be topped with flavorful meat and spiciness! (via Cilantro Parsley)
Culinary Hill
Fry some cheese curds in your oil of choice, and this tapas finger food is ready to be enjoyed! Get ready to make a big batch, though, because these crunchy, creamy bites are addictive! (via Culinary Hill)
Caroline's Cooking
The red wine in this dish gives an extra layer of flavor that you just cannot miss. This recipe tastes delicious with both mild and spicy chorizo, so it's a great option for everyone. They're also super light, which makes them perfect to serve before a larger meal. (via Caroline's Cooking)
Half Baked Harvest
Potatoes at a party are always a win. These brie-stuffed potatoes are unbelievably delicious and provide an elevated take on a classic potato recipe. The addition of truffle oil seriously just pushes these over the edge in terms of flavor. (via Half Baked Harvest)
The Endless Meal
Make this finger food an easy hack by using skewers to serve them! You'll get a mouthful rich with sweet and savory notes. (via The Endless Meal)
My Kitchen Love
This easy tapas recipe allows you to cover all of your flavor bases on a single board instead of making multiple small plates. This tapas assortment is a yummy twist on the modern charcuterie, and is full of Spanish cheeses, meats, grapes, olives and flavorful spreads. (via My Kitchen Love)
Rachel Mansfield
Keep things fresh and fruity with this unique combination of flavors! This chilled tapas recipe will hit different during the summer, as it's a relaxing and refreshing bite. (via Rachel Mansfield)
Signature Concoctions
This take on a classic bruschetta bite can take your tapas party so much further, displaying a range of flavors from spicy to sweet. There are so many different ways to customize them that you can bring them out time and time again and your guests won't ever get tired of them! (via Signature Concoctions)
Cozy Cravings
These delicious, tapas-worthy chicken wings are prepared in the air fryer, making prepping for a party so much easier. Everyone won't be able to get enough of the spicy, citrusy flavors! (via Cozy Cravings)
Food with Feeling
Because no one ever complained about chicken, cheese, and carbs – and we're not about to start. This genius tapas idea takes under 30 minutes to prepare and each bite is filling enough that you wouldn't need to serve much else! (via Food with Feeling)
Live Eat Learn
You'll want to eat tons of these flavorful bites! Get into the crunch with these baked jalapeño poppers. This tapas recipe has the perfect amount of spice that will allow all of your guests to enjoy bite and bite again. (via Live Eat Learn)
Fresh Off the Grid
This addictive tapas party dip is so simple, you can even make it on a camping trip! Don't be fooled by the simplicity though, it's still delicious AF. You can pair it with pita chips or sourdough bread for a treat that's sure to impress. (via Fresh Off the Grid)
A Spicy Perspective
This spicy shrimp tapas recipe can be used to toss with pasta or served on skewers! The choice is yours. They're packed with garlic, arbol chile, and sherry flavor that makes it a standout dish on a big tapas spread. (via A Spicy Perspective)
The Cookie Rookie
These four-ingredient bites are both crispy, chewy, and creamy all at once. They'll add some flavor and texture variety to your tapas menu! (via The Cookie Rookie)
Culinary Hill
Quiche recipes are always a hit, so why not make them bite-sized for your tapas party? You can take this recipe in so many different ways to produce some truly unique flavors. This has got to be one of the best tapas recipes out there. (via Culinary Hill)
Chef Bai
Make entertaining a crowd super simple with these fresh lettuce wraps. You'll get a mouthful of sweet cranberry, but also some savory notes. These tapas pack in tons of nutrition, though you'd never guess it. They're high in fiber and low in fat, making them great to even just make as a snack for yourself! (via Chef Bai)
A Spicy Perspective
This snack is common in Spain, and just one of the easiest ways to make tapas recipes. Fresh, oily, and garlicky, we could never pass up pan con tomate. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Steamy Kitchen
Grilled flank steak and roasted red pepper sit atop creamy goat cheese and crusty bread, but the real kicker is a roasted fig and onion jam that adds a perfect touch of sweetness. (via Steamy Kitchen)
What's Gaby Cooking?
Olive oil, salt, lemon juice, and heat transform these Spanish peppers into a party-worthy tapas food. Your guests will be blown away by how much punch these little peppers pack. (via What’s Gaby Cooking?)
Tara’s Multicultural Table
These vibrant pickled carrot slices, served in olive oil and parsley, make a refreshing accompaniment to heavier, meatier tapas. (via Tara’s Multicultural Table)
Grab a Plate
Meatballs are a welcome guest at any tapas party. These small bites are made with spicy chorizo, a Spanish staple. And, don't be surprised by their tiny size – these easy meatballs are big on flavor. (via Grab a Plate)
Half Baked Harvest
If your tomatoes are in-season, you'll want to make this mother of all tapas recipes: tomato-manchego toasts topped with basil. They look gorgeous, so they're super fit to serve at a tapas celebration! (via Half Baked Harvest)
Mommy Musings
Black olives, capers, and olive oil make one salty spread that you’ll hungrily smear on endless baguette slices during your tapas party. (via Mommy Musings)
Baker by Nature
Looking for a tapas dish with a little wow factor? Behold this simpler-than-you-think squid appetizer. The aioli dipping sauce is sooo good, you're going to be making these again and again. (via Baker by Nature)
Just a Little Bit of Bacon
Quick-fried cauliflower is a healthier alternative to fried cheese or meat, but it still tastes indulgent. One of the best parts of this tapas recipe is that you can fry it a few hours ahead and throw the pieces in the oven to get crispy again. (via Just a Little Bit of Bacon)
Barley & Sage
Toasted baguette slices are topped with brie, balsamic roasted grapes, and toasted pecans along with balsamic glaze, thyme, and black pepper. It's like a party of flavors in your mouth! (via Barley & Sage)
Feel Good Foodie
Handheld snacks are just a massive 'yes' from us. These hand pies are packed with cheese and broccoli to deliver the most satisfying bite. If you're a fan of broccoli + cheddar soup, you're going to love this tapas recipe. (via Feel Good Foodie)
Half Baked Harvest
Again, you could never go wrong with prepping cauliflower bites as far as tapas recipes go. This easy recipe leverages that Buffalo flavor we all know and love! It is one of the most flavorful and easy tapas you can whip up. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Culinary Hill
These roll-ups are perfect for snack time, and easy to make with simple ingredients so that even little ones at your tapas party can enjoy! They're zesty, cheesy, and packed with flavor. (via Culinary Hill)
Salt & Lavender
These garlicky caprese crostini melts are a delicious crowd-pleaser that is low-effort for the host! The crispy baguette paired with the sweet tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and balsamic drizzle makes for a fantastic tapas treat. (via Salt & Lavender)
Live Eat Learn
Whipped feta cheese sits atop a crunchy crostini to balance out all of the comforting flavors of this tapas recipe. It's perfect for a snack, a party finger food, or an appetizer before a big meal. (via Live Eat Learn)
Culinary Hill
These tasty stuffed mushrooms are buttery and savory and can be prepared in less than 30 minutes! The ingredients are superior and include two types of cheeses, scallions, and artichoke hearts. (via Culinary Hill)
Salt & Lavender
Try something a little bit different and whip up some cauliflower to be dipped in this fresh mint concoction. It takes less than 30 minutes and is vegetarian-friendly! (via Salt & Lavender)
Rachel Mansfield
This tapas recipe is like the classic dip, but even better. It's ready in 15 minutes and is made with all gluten-free ingredients, allowing you to accommodate your guests' varying dietary needs. (via Rachel Mansfield)
Join our newsletter for more tapas recipes and appetizer ideas, and check out our cooking and baking classes for more inspo!
This article has been updated.
Any Hunger Games fan will agree that one of the best parts about Catching Fire is that it offers a whole new look at Haymitch Abernathy's character. The mentor (played by Woody Harrelson in the film franchise) won the 2nd Quarter Quell, and the brief mention of his Games totally captured fans' attention, leading to fan art, fanfiction, and even some viral short films. Well, we're finally getting the full story thanks to a brand new Haymitch Hunger Games book, just in time for spring 2025!
Amazon
The Sunrise on the Reaping cover was unveiled the morning of October 16 and it's just as beautiful as we hoped! It continues the tradition from the other books of a bold background color with gold and white accents, and I'll admit I was surprised when I first saw the snake and the mockingjay. The snake is obviously a nod to President Snow, and we know that both Lucy Gray Baird and Katniss Everdeen are two songbirds the President was never able to shake. Will Haymitch Abernathy become one as well?
In the original books, Haymitch starts out as an angry man with no friends or family who always has a drink in his hand, but by the end of Mockingjay, he's a wise, caring father figure for Katniss — and I'm betting Sunrise on the Reaping will show us plenty of those character traits as he has to make his way through the Hunger Games.
One detail on the cover that concerns me is the fact the snake and the songbird are connected, and that a sun sits between them. David Levithan, Scholastic's vice president, publisher, and editorial director told TODAY that just like the other covers, this one features "one of the central themes of the series: how conflicting forces can be connected by their common nature, the songbird and the snake springing from the same source."
The new Hunger Games book is called Sunrise on the Reaping. According to the official announcement, the story will take place 24 years before The Hunger Games, starting on the morning of the 50th Games' reaping. While fans had hoped the story would chronicle Haymitch's victory, it wasn't confirmed until October 16. Read the full synopsis below:
"As the day dawns on the 50th annual Hunger Games, fear grips the districts of Panem. This year, in honor of the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes will be taken from their homes. Back in District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is trying not to think too hard about his chances. All he cares about is making it through the day and being with the girl he loves. When Haymitch’s name is called, he can feel all his dreams break. He’s torn from his family and his love, shuttled to the Capitol with the three other District 12 tributes: a young friend who’s nearly a sister to him, a compulsive oddsmaker, and the most stuck-up girl in town. As the Games begin, Haymitch understands he’s been set up to fail. But there’s something in him that wants to fight ... and have that fight reverberate far beyond the deadly arena."
Lionsgate
Sunrise on the Reaping will hit stores on March 18, 2025.
Lionsgate
As a Quarter Quell, the 50th Hunger Games had a twist. Just like the 75th Hunger Games pulled the tributes from the existing victors, the 50th required double the tributes, meaning Haymitch (who was 16 years old at the time) was one of 48 tributes, not 24.
The arena was a breathtaking landscape with a forest, snow-capped mountains, and beautiful flowers. But Haymitch quickly realized the beauty was a trap, and that everything in the arena was poisonous. He was able to outsmart the rest of the competitors, but after he used the forcefield against the other remaining tribute to secure his victory (a move that offended the Capitol), President Snow retaliated by killing his family and his girlfriend.
Murray Close/Lionsgate
Yes, Sunrise on the Reaping is about Haymitch Abernathy and his win during the 50th Hunger Games.
Check out The 27 Most-Anticipated New Books Debuting In 2024 for more titles coming soon!
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This post has been updated.
Raise your hand if you've felt victimized by the rush to follow through on new year's resolution ideas! Now, raise your other hand if you finally feel like you're coming alive during fall! Great, we're feeling the same — and we promise it has nothing to do with our love for Halloween. Instead, the TikTok viral 'October Theory' may be the reason why it feels like we can breathe after another unprecedented year. But, is it viable or just another trend that everyone's going to forget about before the year is over (remember the lucky girl syndrome)? Also, what is it?
We chatted with psychotherapist, Kristie Tse, LMHC and traditional astrologer, Talisa Zampieri to get their hot takes about what the 'October Theory' is, whether you should pay attention to it, and how it may (or may not be) impacted by the stars.
There are tons of TikTok videos that describe this theory in detail, but user @mindandbodymams describes it best. She says, "Because October is leading up to the ending of the year, people start looking at their lives and deciding what things need to be set into motion." She explains that this could look like making changes to your relationship, or starting a new job — it could even look like you starting a new hobby or letting go of a few bad habits.
Regardless, this all boils down to one thing: October is the perfect time to take a look at your goals and implement them before the end of the year.
Thinking about the possibilities for the new year is so exciting, often leaving people inspired to make vision boards, write detailed resolutions, and dream big about what's to come. However, not everyone is thrilled about jumping headfirst into that energy. "Setting goals at the beginning of a new year can pose challenges for some individuals due to various psychological factors. For many, the pressure to start fresh and achieve immediate results can feel overwhelming, leading to procrastination or anxiety," explains Tse. As the clinical director and founder of Uncover Mental Health Counseling, she specializes in helping clients make empowered decisions during different seasons of their lives.
Other things like "past experiences of unmet resolutions can also create a sense of skepticism or defeatism," adds Tse. "Additionally, societal and familial expectations may cloud individual desires, causing internal conflict about what truly matters to them." According to Forbes, 62% of people feel like they have to participate in the new year's resolution trend. What's even more surprising is that over half of women "feel slightly more pressured to set a resolution" than 60% of men!
Tse surmises these very reasons ultimately makes things "feel daunting" which can hinder "goal-setting efforts." She says, "As a psychotherapist, I recognize that these barriers are deeply rooted in personal and cultural narratives, which can often dictate one's ability to set and achieve goals."
Some people welcome fall with open arms — and subsequently the 'October Theory' — because it seems to promise a much needed reset. You're not alone if you feel this way, and Tse says there's a reason for this. "Many individuals feel that October symbolizes the beginning of their new year due to the psychological transitions associated with changing seasons. The start of autumn represents a shift from the energetic and social atmosphere of summer to a more introspective and reflective time."
Think about how excited you get to watch the leaves turn from green to rich hues of golden yellow, orange, and crimson. As they fall from their respective branches, this process can signify things that we may need to let go in order to make room for fresh things to grow. "The onset of fall can trigger an internal reset, prompting people to reassess their goals and intentions. Psychologically, this period might coincide with academic calendars or fiscal years, influencing how some structure their personal timelines," she continues.
Not only that, but Tse's seen how beneficial fall is because it can "help clients refocus and energize their commitment to personal growth and change." The more they do this, the more they start "aligning more naturally with their internal rhythms compared to the culturally enforced January start," Tse observes.
Not only is it October right now, but it's also Libra season! So while there's plenty of psychology to support your stance on fresh starts right now, could it also be written in the stars? Intuitive tarot reader and founder of Two Wander, Talisa Zampieri thinks so. She says that Libra is a cardinal sign, and that because all cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) fall on equinoxes and solstices, they're therefore "initiators of new seasons and change."
If you're not familiar with Libras in particular, no worries! Zampieri says, "Air signs are the connectors, visionaries, and communicators of the zodiac." She says this is because Libras are ruled by Venus, a "relational planet that governs our values." So the Libras in your life — and thus Libra season in general — may be more "focused on ideals, other people, and finding alignment."
Zampieri elaborates that Libra season actually illuminates the areas in our lives — usually specific to areas of our birth chart that we have Libra placements — that need to find that balance and alignment again. She says, "The general effect of Libra season is one of trying to rebalance where the scales have been tipped too far in one direction, beautifying our life, and coming to harmony."
Starting to sound similar to October Theory? We thought so, too! Not only are we able to cosmically recognize where w we might need to shift our focus during this time, but Zampieri also highlights another shift. She says that "around October 22 we shift into Scorpio season, which is the master alchemist and transformer."
Feeling the pull towards finding change and balance? Check. Actually acting on that pull? Check. The October Theory is practically tattoed in the fabric of the stars.
Though a 'theory' can sound quite rigid and academic, this isn't something that requires you to dismantle your life and start with a completely different set of rules to live by. It's actually simpler than you think. "To embrace the 'October theory' in goal setting, start by assessing the changes you feel during this season. Use this transitional time to reflect on personal achievements, unfulfilled aspirations, and areas of growth," Tse suggests.
For example, let's say one of your goals was to stop relying on delivery services like Instacart or Uber Eats as much. We know life gets busy, causing us to backtrack on our cooking goals. But instead of kicking yourself for not being consistent with making homemade dinner recipes, you can start by asking yourself what kind of meals you want to eat. That could be all the encouragement you need to wander your grocery store aisles more successfully — and more empowered!
Tse says, "Create small, meaningful goals that resonate with your true desires, rather than what may have been imposed externally. Consider incorporating themes of autumn — like letting go and transformation — into your objectives, which can offer a symbolic motivation." She encourages you to "release habits that no longer serve you or cultivate new practices that align with the person you aim to become."
The more you shut out outside noise and check in with yourself, the more you'll be able to become clear about things you truly want.
From an astrological POV, there are things we can do to make sure our goals feel aligned to us. Zampieri says, "The ways each sign can lean into this theory in a way that feels authentic to them is by looking at which astrological house Libra (and Scorpio) fall for them in their natal chart and aligning with its themes."
For example, she points out that for Libra risings, "this this transit is occurring in their 1st house of self, which amplifies the focus on self-development." On the other hand, Sagittarius risings will be affected differently. "This is their 11th house of friendship and so they can focus on their community and aspirations, etc."
If you're a Libra, one of your goals may be to get serious about your fitness goals or setting boundaries that feel true to you. If you're a Sagittarius, you may be focused on exploring friend date ideas that allow you to bond with your best friends — or you may even be exploring the potential for friendship breakups, letting go of the relationships that no longer serve them.
The point is, regardless of your sun sign, you have Libra somewhere on your birth chart. Once you recognize this area — and what that area represents — you'll be able to facilitate change more specific to your needs.
Pursuing new goals sounds fun until you realize you have to stay consistent, right? We've all been there to a degree — but there are ways to work around it, according to Tse. "Implementing structured daily rituals can create a strong foundation for consistency. Setting specific times for activities integrates them into your routine naturally," she says. This can look like setting alarms on your phone so you can allot time for whatever you want to do. But, why does this help us stay on track? "Tracking progress visually, like with a calendar, reinforces commitment," Tse shares.
If you're still struggling with procrastination, Tse says you can ask friends and other people you look up to for help, because "having someone to share successes and challenges with can keep motivation high." However, don't let your ambitious nature convince you that you have to tackle everything at one time. The last thing we want you to experience is burnout, so Tse has three key boundaries you can set in place:
Still on the fence about what goals you should be pursuing? Zampieri says to avoid what doesn't resonate with you. "If starting afresh now makes you feel good and you like to work under a deadline, set those new goals," she says excitedly. But, she's not convinced it's something you have to do if you're not 100% sure about the 'October Theory.'
"If you are naturally more drawn inward during this time of year and prefer to wind down instead, do that (particularly Scorpio risings as this is their 12th house natally which is more introspective). Don't let the internet pressure you into anything," she insists.
This is especially true if all the talk about setting new goals ahead of next year is triggering anxious thoughts. Zampieri says, "If someone feels negatively affected by the 'October Theory,' they can try to regain some perspective by looking back to last year instead," she Zampieri says. "Sometimes it is easier to see how far we've come by reflecting on where we were this time a year ago. Alternatively, someone can focus on the rhythm of the seasons instead: nature is naturally preparing to hibernate now and so can we."
Just because the 'October Theory' has gone viral doesn't mean your life will be incomplete if you're not participating in it. It's an interesting concept, but you should ultimately choose whatever feels closely aligned with where you are in life. No journey is linear, so don't worry about this timeline — but if you do need a boost, then this trend has you covered.
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