I always allow time over the Christmas holidays to reflect on the past year and set intentions and goals for the year ahead. 2021 was a tough year for many – myself included. 

I have been procrastinating on this year’s reflection practice. Like an awkward conversation I don’t want to revisit or a painful memory that is still too tender to process, I prefer to jump into 2022 without looking back. Yet, I know as blissful as avoidance can be – integration of “what is” is a better teacher for “what is” to come.

Here are a few of my hardwon insights from 2021.

• I have too many shoes and seem to struggle using the last quarter bottle of shampoo. (We moved locally in December – forcing an inventory.)
• When you encounter unscrupulous bullies in life. Don’t back down; but also don’t give them your mental and emotional energy. Place your energy on the light – the people whom you respect, share your core values, and are blessed to call a friend. Thank you to all my friends – you know who you are.
• Don’t be afraid of endings. The prospect of change may be uncomfortable, but embedded in every change is the opportunity to create something new and better suited to where you are at that point in your life.
• 7-8 hours of sleep each night and taking a brisk walk outside every day are gifts that are never to be taken for granted.
• If the people in your family are healthy and happy two years into a global pandemic, you are beyond blessed.

How did I arrive at the insights I shared above? There are many ways to practice reflection. We can answer specific reflection questions, or use different lenses or perspectives from which to reflect on a situation. 

Depending on the year, I mix it up. For example, since 2021 was challenging, I wanted to look at the lessons learned. I took the biggest challenges in 2021 and then asked a follow-up question, “How did I overcome these challenges?” And, from there, I derived insights. Also, since the global pandemic is still ongoing – here is a link to questions that look through the lens of the pandemic. 

Reflection Questions for 2021

1. How would I describe 2021 in just 3 words?
2. What were my biggest achievements in 2021?
3. What were my biggest challenges in 2021?
4. How have I developed as a person in 2021?
5. What can I leave behind?
6. What can I take from 2021 into 2022?

You can also set your intentions for the year. Intentions are more overarching than goals and are focused on your inner relationship with yourself. Identifying your intentions can help you live your life with meaning and purpose. 

Intention Questions for 2022

1. What are 3 words that I want to describe my new year?
2. What do I need to be my truest, authentic self?
3. In which areas do I wish to grow?
4. How do I want to feel on a daily basis?
5. How can my work positively impact others?
6. What is my ‘why’ behind the way I show up in my work?
7. How do I become the best version of myself in my work?

With love, light, and a little help,

Ellen