One thing I love to make time for at the end of every year is to reflect on the year that has been in order to prepare myself for the next year. Sometimes it means being grateful for what has been wonderful in that year, sometimes it means compassionately recognising that I need to let go of something or a habit or even someone as I move into the new year in order to make space for what I actually want. So I am going to share a series of questions that I always ask myself, hoping that you will find them useful too. Sit down with a notebook and a nice cup of something and reflect.
What great things happened in your life in 2018? These could be personal, relationships, health, financial, work or business.
What happened in your life in 2018 that maybe in hindsight was not so great? (Recognise but don't judge).
Who or what are you grateful for being in your life in 2018?
What mistakes did you make in 2018? (Again recognise but be compassionate towards yourself as mistakes are a way that we grow when we recognise them).
What did you learn in 2018 that has affected you the most and how do you intend to incorporate this into your life in 2019?
What do you want more of in your life in 2019? And what will you do to get this?
What will you do in 2019 to ensure that there are less of the things you don't want or were not so great in 2018?
How do you want to feel in 2019? Write down at least 3 adjectives.
I personally love to have adjectives to write down about how I want to feel or want my life to be and have them in my diary, near my desk and mirror just to remind me everyday so as to make them more of a reality, not just a textbook exercise. These are great to meditate on, if you meditate.
What is your affirmation for 2019?
Remember that an affirmation is a positive statement in the present tense about how you want to be/feel. For example, “I am resilient” or “I am worthy”. Don’t underestimate the power of affirmations. Write them down, say them out loud, say them in front of the mirror and most of all, say them with belief and commitment. One way to get useful and relevant affirmations is to catch your mind saying something negative and change it round to be positive and make it work for you. Write out your affirmation and keep it where you can see and repeat it as much as you want.
Enjoy the reflection and prepare yourself for a great year.