Rachael GiffenRogue Valley Real Estate
Blog / October 4, 2025

October Reset: My Plan to Level Up Finances & Fitness This Month

By Rachael Giffen · October 4, 2025

Hello, friends, and Happy Friday

Can you believe we’re already in October? It’s that perfect reset moment before the holidays kick in full force. This month, I’m doubling down on two big goals: financial momentum and body recomposition (

January beach vacay is looming). Below, I’m sharing exactly what I’m doing, where I’m headed this weekend, and how I’m planning to close out the year strong.

💰 Finance Focus: Building Momentum, Planning Ahead

1. Add a Christmas line item to the budget

It might feel early, but with just a few months left in the year, now’s the time to start earmarking funds for holiday spending. I’ve added a “Christmas Gifts ” category to my monthly budget. Even a modest, consistent allocation (say $100–$300/month, depending on your situation) can prevent December from looking like a financial scramble.

2. Passive income goals & down payment build

Everything extra goes toward growing passive income and building toward my down payment for an investment home. Basically: surplus money isn’t being spent , it’s being invested.

I’m using Robinhood to channel those extra funds. If you want to try it too, here’s my link: https://join.robinhood.com/rachaeh26

3. Wins this week: +$2,600 growth

This week was a big one, I saw an uptick of $2,600 in growth across my investments. It’s not a guarantee it happens every week, but it’s a strong reminder: compounding works, and momentum matters.

🏋️ Fitness Focus: Cutting for the Beach

January beach trip = full cut mode activated. Here’s how I’m attacking it:

I rotate in accessory work (lunges, glute bridges, face pulls) as needed, but these big lifts form the backbone of my strength.

Nutrition note: I’m keeping protein high, eating a moderate caloric deficit, and prioritizing whole foods + fiber to feel full.

📆 This Weekend in Southern Oregon

Here are some of the fun happenings around the Rogue Valley and Southern Oregon this weekend.

My Weekend Plans

❤️ Why This Matters

October is your chance to reset , not by making sweeping changes, but by setting the scaffolding now (budget lines, habits, systems). When December comes, you won’t be scrambling. And when January’s New Year’s resolution arrive, you’ll be in a better place physically and financially.

Rachael Giffen
Broker · Rogue Valley

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