Looking back and reflecting on our experiences, achievements, and challenges from the past year helps us feel fulfilled. We can see what we found meaningful throughout the year, and start looking ahead at ways we can improve ourselves in the future. You’ve probably overcome obstacles, kicked goals, and gained new skills; even if it doesn’t feel like it.
Reflection isn’t always easy, but it can be really powerful – so let’s look at how you can take some time to reflect purposefully on your year.
Every goal counts
You might be thinking, “what if I didn’t achieve much this year?” Well, you probably did more than you think. Remember, every little thing counts, not just the really big stuff.
Maybe you finally joined a sport team. Perhaps you finished reading a novel you’ve been putting off for ages. Have you improved on your school grades from last year? Or are you just happy you made it through the year? Even though these things might seem small, they’re definitely worth celebrating.
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”
Lao Tzu
Tips to get started on purposeful reflection
Need a bit of help looking back on your year? We’ve written some steps to help you reflect.
Set the scene
Find a space that’s nice and quiet, or somewhere you can focus without distractions. Bring something you can use to write down your thoughts, whether it’s a notebook or computer.
Review your calendar
Go through each month one at a time – it’s easier to break the year into small chunks. Use your calendar, journal, social media posts, or any notes to recall significant events, accomplishments, challenges, and emotions you experienced.
Make a note of every achievement
Writing helps solidify your thoughts and serves as a reference for the future. Remember to include all the “little” things, and try and look at achievements from lots of different aspects of your life. These could be things like:
- Academic
- Sporting
- Hobbies
- Family
- Community
- Feedback
- Overcoming loss or disappointment
Ask yourself questions
If you’re struggling to think of anything, you might find using questions as prompts useful. Here are a few examples:
- What were my biggest accomplishments this year?
- What were the most memorable things from this year?
- What challenges did I face, and how did I overcome them?
- What did I learn about myself this year?
- What do I want to improve or change in the coming year?
Find the achievements you’re most proud of
Now that you have a comprehensive list, look back and think about which achievements you’re most proud of. Which ones do you think you might still be proud of in the future…maybe even when you’re 50?
Looking forward
As you wrap up this year and prepare to step into the next, now could be the perfect time for introspection. Reflecting on your accomplishments and lessons learned can be a powerful tool in shaping a brighter and more fulfilling future.
Then it’s time to celebrate! You should feel good about what you’ve achieved – you deserve it. Embrace the opportunity to learn from the past and set the stage for a successful year ahead.
Find out more
We have heaps of other blogs on our website where you can learn more about skill building, setting goals, and much more – take a look here.