Published on Oct 01, 2026
Pinch. Punch. First of the month. No returns.
It’s one of those phrases many of us grew up with. Said without thinking. Passed from one generation to the next. A tiny ritual marking the turn of the calendar.
But where did it come from?
Some say it traces back to England’s witch hunters. The pinch was a pinch of salt, thought to weaken a witch. The punch was to banish them for good.
Others tell a very different story. That in the United States, George Washington served fruit punch with a pinch of salt to Native American tribes on the first day of each month.
Two stories. Both uncertain.
Which feels like a good reminder that we get to decide what our rituals mean.
So perhaps it’s time for a new interpretation.
Pinch yourself.
Not to hurt. To notice.
To remember that you’re here. Alive. Present. Part of this strange and wonderful experience.
Punch your pathway.
More like a hole punch. Not with force. but intention. Leave your mark.
Step forward. Make yourself known. Take the next small step.
And the first of the month?
It’s a micro fresh start.
A chance to begin again without waiting for a new year, a new job, or a new version of yourself.
Just a new day.
A new month.
An invitation.
And as for no returns?
Maybe that’s the most important part.
This life isn’t a rehearsal. There are no exchanges, no refunds, no going back for a different version.
Only this moment.
Only this month.
Only this chance.
Happy October from all of us at IPI.
If you'd like a little more inspiration for the month ahead, join us for our free October webinar with Geoff Marsh:
Negotiation Without Conflict: Finding Better Outcomes for Everyone, 12 October 2026 from 9-10am UK time.
Book your place here: https://ipi.academy/product/details/3435/negotiation-without-conflict-finding-better-outcomes-for-everyone
Published on Oct 01, 2026 by Ella Thomas