Why a 90-Day Journal?

Exploring the psychology of short-term goals, habit-building, and why 90 days is the sweet spot.

Over the years, some Surefooters have asked: “Why did we choose 90 days for the journal?” It’s a great question, and one we thought long and hard about.

The bottom line: 90 days is long enough to build a meaningful habit, but short enough that you don’t lose momentum. It’s a manageable window of time where you can stay focused without feeling overwhelmed.

There’s also something seasonal about it. Just like the four seasons in a year, the 90-day cycle gives us four opportunities for a “reset” if life takes over and our goals slip to the side. Some stretches of life are filled with growth and energy, while others feel more dormant. That’s normal - and the Surefooted Journal is designed to meet you where you are.

Each time you start a new journal, the deep reflection section at the beginning offers a chance to pause and ask:
“What do I want most in life? What do I need to reconnect with every day to create the joy and happiness I deserve?”

It has always struck me how difficult that first question can be. A 90-day journal provides enough space to explore it, while also keeping the horizon close enough that you can reach a destination and then start fresh.

And if you happen to reach your goals in less than 90 days? That’s where the Surefooted bookmarks come in. Each one has space for your values at the top and three goals below. When you achieve a goal, simply check it off and, if you’d like, add a new one to your next bookmark. In this way, the bookmarks help you both stay on track in your journal and keep your evolving goals visible.

Personally, I’ve often started a new journal with the beginning of a new season. One autumn, for example, I launched a new 90-day journal just as we were preparing for a big family move. The timing gave me both structure and focus during a chaotic period, while also reminding me to stay grateful for the season I was in, literally and figuratively.

That’s what I love about the 90-day rhythm: it balances action with reflection, ambition with gratitude. It gives me the chance to push forward on goals, pause to reflect, and then start anew.

Happy journaling, and stay Surefooted.