2017 was quite a year. For some, 2017 was a year of success and happiness. For others, 2017 was disappointing. Let’s face it; not every year can be perfect. Which is why it’s important to take time to reflect on everything 2017 brought, including the good and the bad. December is the ideal month to reflect on the past before focusing on what the new year will bring.
How to Reflect on the Past Year
If you don’t know where to start, start at the beginning
Take the time to go through your entire year, starting with January. Reflect back on each month of the year, noting successes, difficulties, and anything else you feel is important.
Review your New Year’s Resolution from last year
If you are in the habit of making annual New Year’s Resolutions, look up the resolutions of the past when reflecting on the past year. Which ones did you keep? Which ones are you still struggling with? Be honest with yourself about what you’ve done to accomplish your goals.
Write down your accomplishments and areas for improvement
It is particularly important to note your accomplishments this past year. Even if you find yourself thinking more about the areas of improvement, ensure that your list of accomplishments is just as long or longer than your list of improvements.
Ask yourself the following questions
Has your career progressed they way you wanted? Did you achieve your income goals?
Were you physically healthy this year? Did you eat right and exercise regularly?
Were you spiritually happy this year? Do you feel fulfilled by the year?
Did you spend time with family and friends this year? Are your social relationships stronger? Are your personal relationships stronger?
If the 2017 year were to play out in a movie, what type of movie would it be?
Take the time to ask yourself the questions that matter to you and reflect on the entire year as a whole and broken down by months. The more time you take to reflect on your current year, the better you will be able to able to plan the necessary steps to take to achieve more next year. It is difficult to move forward effectively without looking to see how far you’ve come.
