When a year ends or is coming to an end, many of us feel pumped to wrap it on a fun note. We start making plans with our family and friends; we book holidays or at least have get-togethers lined up that help us unwind. Many of us are so engrossed in the gaieties of an anticipated new beginning (at least, as per the calendar) that we miss out on doing something that can give us a more meaningful fresh start.
We seek growth, don’t we? There’s not one person who doesn’t like an upgrade in life. However, some of us seek it more actively, while some of us wait for things to happen to us. And those who do so actively, are the people holding the steering wheel of their life.
So what oils the wheels of your growth? It all begins with self-reflection. By reflecting on your past and present, you can analyse what areas you need to improve for a more fulfilling experience, in whichever sphere of your life.
As we are set to begin a new year, here are some points that can serve as a starter kit for your journey of self-reflection.
What are you most grateful for?
The flip side to self-reflection is that often we look at it through pessimism-tinted glasses. Of course, the road to where you are now, has not been devoid of speed-breakers and bumps. But you should never forget to see the full side of the glass. Count your blessings and set a positive tone for the upcoming year.
What are you taking for granted?
We hate being taken for granted, don’t we? And yet, at some point or the other, all of us take some part of our lives for granted. Is it our secure jobs? Is it our always-there family? Or are we taking the present for granted and indulging ourselves without realising its consequences on our future? Reflecting on this will help you not lose out on the blessings you currently have.
What lessons did you learn from your mistakes?
Be it a bad relationship or a career mistake you made, or even a fatal flaw you possess, learning from your mistakes can help you grow. All of us make mistakes; all of us go through things we wouldn’t wish for anyone else. But instead of crying over it, we can learn from all of it.
In what ways, did you change from the start to the end of the year?
Imagine being stuck in a job that offers you no growth. The onus can also be on you for not being motivated enough to reach out for opportunities for advancement. Similarly, if a year passes you by, and you are exactly how you were at the start of it, is a cause of worry. Personal growth is important too. So it’s time to reflect on how you evolved as a person and what areas you could target the next year. Honestly, as long as you have a learning mindset, you will evolve even without setting specific targets courtesy of life as it unfolds.
Do you feel you deserve better?
How do you feel about your year? Do you feel you are where you should be? Do you feel you deserve a better job? Are you not treated well enough in your relationship? Is something stopping you from reaching your maximum potential as a person? Ask yourself these questions and then plan how you can work towards getting what you deserve.
Are you nourishing yourself?
Yes, goals are important. Tangible achievements matter. But what matters equally, if not more, is whether you are nourishing your life. Without nourishment, you will experience burnout or have a life that is only materialistically fulfilling. Are you taking care of your needs? Are you taking the breaks you deserve, and the self-care you deserve? Are you learning new things and pursuing hobbies, and doing things you love? Ask yourself these questions and start doing things you aren’t doing for yourself.
Also Read: Holiday Blues: What Is It And How To Cope With It