A Time For Reflection

As 2007 comes to an end, it is a good time to reflect back on the year that was and prepare for the New Year. I have found that the best way to reflect back is to take some quiet time out and answer a few questions. This exercise can take between 30 minutes to an hour but it is well worth spending the time to do so.

The questions I use to reflect back are:

A. What was 2007 about?

What did I love about 2007?

What goals did I achieve and what challenges did I overcome?

What goals did I not achieve and what challenges held me back?

What did I learn from the challenges I faced this year?

What decisions did I make that have helped me this year?

B. Using the past as a springboard for the future.

What do I have in my life right now that was once a dream or a goal?

What character strengths or traits were needed to accomplish them?

What did I overcome in the process of achieving those dreams or goals?

C. What is 2008 going to be about?

What am I looking forward to the most in 2008?

What are my goals for 2008 and beyond?

What character strengths or traits will be needed to accomplish them?

What am I committed to doing in 2008?

What resources can I call upon (people, materials etc.) to help me reach my goals?

This is a very simple exercise that you can put yourself through and get refocused for the year ahead. I highly encourage everyone to go through the exercise and trust that by doing so, you will reap the benefits in the future.