As the year ends, “Where did the months go?” is probably the question on many minds. Amidst the festivities, most people still manage to take stock of the previous months, dredging up emotions and thoughts that may not be favorites. Reflecting … questioning their current life trajectory.
Unfortunately, life cannot always be pleasant. There are blunders, disappointments, hurtful incidents and painful experiences. These negative experiences are often magnified as the year draws to a close, leaving a very sour taste in most mouths. Most of us become very hard on ourselves tending to downplay our more positive experiences. With hearts filled with regret, we set about hunting for our mistakes and berating ourselves for all our shortcomings.
Reflecting can be very ‘healthful’ if it is done properly. It is akin to taking a step back and objectively examining the ending year with a willingness to adjust, correct, bury or resuscitate where and when necessary. Reflecting enables one to listen to oneself and one’s thoughts with a sense of curiosity… “Why do I hold this point of view? Is it correct? What has it caused/ cost me? Do I need to change it? If I do, how can I go about it?”
Reflecting is the time to:
- Acknowledge mistakes, determine to learn from their consequences and harness them as a tool for self-improvement.
- Recognize accomplishments and celebrate the things that were done well.
- Identify things, people and places that really give joy and determine to pay more attention to them.
- Be truly grateful for things that money cannot buy- friends, family, love and laughter.
Now is the time to examine this year’s actions and inactions with both humility and kindness. We must let go of 2018 and embrace 2019 with hope and excitement…2018 must not be allowed to define 2019!