In January we often reflect upon the previous year. This week I provide you with some ways to approach this task, and my hope is you have some epiphanies, clarity and ideas that assist you as you move into 2018.
Before you begin you will want to set the stage for this exercise. Create a cozy relaxed environment by making some tea, lighting a few candles, playing peaceful music and burning some of your favourite incense. Gather a few things you will need.
Start by taking some time to review the previous year – get out your journal, agenda / day-timer, vision board, list of goals, Reiki wheel, pen and paper; anything that will remind you of what occurred over the past year, as well as, what you had intended to accomplish. Then, write down the answer to the following questions:
What did I accomplish in 2017? What did I work hardest at?
What surprised me this year? What happened that I hadn’t planned on?
What were my disappointments?
If the past year was a movie, would it have been an action movie, comedy, satire, drama, thriller, cartoon, musical or documentary? What title would I give it? What role did I play?
Which goals or intentions did I set for myself in 2017 did I not complete? What happened?
What were my greatest challenges in 2017?
What is the greatest achievement that I’m most proud of in 2017?
What new learning and insights did 2017 leave me with?
What will I intentionally leave behind in 2017? (beliefs, patterns, habits or ways of thinking)
What will I consciously carry forward into 2017 and continue working towards? (Include your I AM statements and affirmations here)
What else is important to acknowledge about this past year?
Write a list of at least 50 things / people / events / experiences you are grateful for in 2017. (being grateful is a great way to bring in more of the good stuff)
Once you feel complete with your review of the year, you may choose to symbolically release it by safely burning or shredding the paper you wrote on and in the spirit of gratitude welcome all 2018 has to offer.
Complete the exercise by asking yourself if you’ve appropriately celebrated all of your efforts and accomplishments over the year?
Remember the seemingly small things may have been integral to bigger shifts. And, perhaps think of a way to celebrate and acknowledge all the work you’ve done, the impact you’ve made and the people who have contributed value to your life over the past year?
And consider asking a few of the people closest to you a few questions for input and clarity:
- what you mean to them
- how you have contributed to their lives
- how you can continue to play a role in their lives
- what they see as your strengths, challenges and opportunities / areas for growth
I like to keep each year’s reflections printed out and placed in a file to reflect upon, even if just briefly, each year.
I wish you an abundant New Year filled with much love, passion and adventure. As always I am here to support you in this life journey – and welcome your feedback.