Reflecting on the Year & Contemplating the Future
4 Powerful End Of The Year Reflection Questions
At this time of the year, I like to reflect on what went well, what could have gone better, and where I want to go as I head into the new year. There are four simple but powerful questions that I like to use to engage in this reflection process:
It is so important to celebrate the WINS!! Questions 1 and 2 are designed with this in mind. So often we have the tendency to spiral into defeatist mode and think about what didn't work and what we must fix in order to be 'better' in the new year. Please don't skip over questions #1 and #2. There is always something to celebrate and always something to be proud of! And it's often more than you realize!
And when you look at question #3, think in terms of how you can use what didn't work well to help you grow and evolve. What lessons can you learn here? It's important not to attach judgment, simply use what didn't work as feedback - as information to let you know that you need to try a different approach or take a different direction.
In the words of Thomas Edison, on the invention of the light bulb,
"I have not failed....I've just found 10,000 ways that don't work".
Question #4 is great to help you gain clarity as you move forward. When you think in terms of what the year will look like and what the year will feel like, it will help you paint a clear picture of the direction you want to take in your mind.
And to take it one step further, when you have this clear picture in your mind, start looking for actual images that remind of you of this feeling. Cut them out and tape them up wherever you will see them on a regular basis. I like to put mine on my vision board, the side of my computer screen, and on my kitchen window.
Invest In Your Self-Growth and Evolution
I truly believe one of the most powerful things we can do is invest in our own growth and our own evolution. I also believe this starts with taking the time to engage in powerful self-reflection. Use the end of the year as an opportunity to kick start this reflection process and begin cultivating your wisdom.
