Year-End Reflection
I was inspired by a coaching client to do a year-end reflection and then encouraged by a friend to share my process.
Necessary ingredients: Cappuccino, notebook, 1 hour alone, calendar.
I did not plan how I would approach my year-end review. I just jumped in and began reflecting on this past year. In retrospect, though, I did formulate questions for consideration, and I’ll share those with you in a bit.
As I stepped back to look at the beginning of the year and now the end, my first ah-ha was – This was my first year as a self-employed - no bi-weekly paycheck - individual – doing exactly what I love doing – working with incredible folks who are seeking change in their personal or professional lives.
Oh my – how did that happen!?! This had been a long-time dream, and it became a reality. It was a journey, and I considered how magical it is that I am here.
The reflection process also gave me the opportunity to recall - and have gratitude for - all the amazing encounters with lovely people and lovely places that I had this year.
It also required that I reflect on those things that were difficult and painful – a death in the family, a parent losing their independence, a friendship withering.
If you choose to do a year-end reflection, here are some questions to consider:
Consider your long-term goals. How did you make progress toward those this past year?
Consider various aspects of your life – e.g. financial, spiritual, family, health, relationships – how did you support each of those areas this year? What do you want to do differently this coming year?
Review your calendar to recall all you’ve accomplished – personally and professionally.
Reflect on the difficult times this past year. What could have been different? Would you do anything differently?
Acknowledge and then let go of the things you couldn’t control.
Were there opportunities that you forfeited? How would you respond differently this coming year?
Were there opportunities that you said Yes to – and are happy you did? How will you open yourself up to similar opportunities this coming year?
I hope you are inspired to do a year-end reflection! 😍
