It’s the time of year when a little time for reflection is afforded. When schedules calm down for a few days (after the 25th!). And a little solitude and introspection sets up a successful year to come.
No matter who you are, taking 10 minutes to reflect on your year and what you want for the year ahead is time well spent!
Did you know that the making of resolutions at the start of a new year dates back to ancient Babylonians around 4,000 years ago? But to be clear — this is less about making resolutions, and more about the wisdom you generate for yourself from quiet reflection.
Given that, these days, most people prefer things kept pretty simple — and I just so happen to like to keep things simple — here are five quick questions that you can use to generate a few key insights for yourself for the year ahead:
1. What moments this year made you feel most alive, and why?
Increasingly, higher performers are becoming clear on what tasks create more energy versus the energy sucking, draining activities. Focus more on the prior.
2. What challenges did you overcome that were big issues to you at the time?
Looking back at bigger obstacles you surmounted during the year brings more confidence and resilience for adversity overcome.
3. Where did you spend much of your time, energy, and attention — and was it aligned with what matters most to you?
Looking backwards to see how well you prioritized and allocated your time and energy helps keep you moving in the direction that you’ll be proud of later on.
4. Who or what did you let go of this year that brought you space or peace?
This reflection helps integrate and strengthen the act of releasing what no longer serves you.
5. Who or what had the greatest positive influence on your life this past year, and how can you bring more of that into your life this year ahead?
It’s simple really: do more of what’s working, and less of what’s not. Simple blueprint for happiness.
You’re always doing nice things for everyone else. Human nature.
Take a few moments in the week ahead and write out short answers to each of these questions. Be curious and have fun with this. See what patterns and insights emerge for you! Treat it like an adventure where you create something of value for your year ahead.
I think you’ll be pleased with what you find.
Then action your findings and insights right away.
My best to you for a purposeful 2025!
Chris Wilkinson is a Leadership Coach who works with driven entrepreneurs and leaders looking to thrive and scale with more purpose, organization, and drive. For info visit www.CoachingWithChris.ca or email Chris at info@CoachingWithChris.ca
