A method for initializing startup of a wind turbine includes measuring a first wind condition at the wind turbine at a first moment in time. The method also includes measuring a second wind condition at the wind turbine at a subsequent, second moment in time. Further, the method includes estimating an acceleration parameter of the wind turbine as a function of the first wind condition and the second wind condition. Moreover, the method includes comparing the acceleration parameter to a predetermined threshold. As such, the method includes initializing a first startup process for the wind turbine when the acceleration parameter is at or below a predetermined threshold. Further, the method includes initializing a second startup process for the wind turbine when the acceleration parameter exceeds a predetermined threshold, the second startup process being faster than the first startup process.