Reflecting On The Year Passed

December 2013 Insights

It may be surprising for some to hear but I’m not big into new year resolutions. You see as a life coach I hate to limit myself and my clients to resolving to “get going” on our life ambitions based on what the calendar says. I’d like to think regardless (winter, spring, summer or fall) that there’s no better time than the present to create positive change in our lives. I am, however, a big proponent of taking the last few days on the calendar to reflect upon the year passed as I believe it will help set the stage for greater success all through the new coming year.

holly_december_blogRegardless whether or not you value new year resolutions there is no denying, during this time of the year, how we all contemplate the possibilities a brand new year can bring. Whether it is starting fresh and cleaning up our diets after weeks of festive indulgences or organizing our lives with new routines regarding our work, home and children’s school responsibilities. Nothing can better prepare and shape how we approach the new year than reflecting on the year passed.

So in this month’s newsletter I am hoping to encourage everyone to take some time in  the last week of the month and carve out an hour or so for quiet reflection. Grab a pen and some paper and start considering how you spent this past year, what did you accomplish that you are proud of and what may have slipped through the cracks that is still important to you.

Ask Yourself

  • What were the most significant events of the year past? ( List the top 3 )
  • What did you accomplish? (List wins and achievements)
  • What were your disappointments? ( Regarding yourself )
  • What were your biggest challenges/roadblocks/difficulties?
  • What did you learn? (skills, knowledge, awareness, etc)
  • What would you do differently? Why?
  • What do you feel especially good about? What was your greatest contribution?
  • What were the fun things you did? What were the not-so-fun?
  • How are you different this year than last?

Let these reflections inform your plans for the new year. Say good-bye to 2013. Give thanks for the learning and usefulness this year has brought and welcome in 2014 with your eyes wide open and ready to move forward!

Wishing Everyone

a Very

Happy New Year!