Reflection Review

By three methods we may learn wisdom: first, by reflection, which is noblest; second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.

Confucius

People say it is difficult to find the time for reflection but at the end of the year putting aside the time to reflect, review helps to put your life in perspective. Those of us that keep journals, write notes, have an abundance of material to start the their annual reflection process. Those of us who are not so organised have to rely on our memory. This is an equally valid way to reflect, so long as you are true to yourself and your efforts for the year are realistic. Honesty is required.

By putting aside the time, each year to reflect, we are saying to ourselves that we value what we have done, how we have done it, and that, we would like to take the opportunity to learn from the past year. Reflection is an important part of how we grow as people.

There are a number of ways you can do your reflection. It is important that you write down or draw using a technique such as a mind map, (a diagram used to represent words, ideas, tasks or other items linked to and arranged around a central key word or idea), the significant things that happened in 2011. This will provide you with a record on what you have done in 2011, which you can then use for coming years. Your personal record for 2011 then becomes an interesting insight into you and your personal journey.

When you are doing your reflection some areas to think about could include:

Goals you have met
Values you have strengthened
Skills and abilities you have developed
Relationships - family, friends, work colleagues
Important conversations you have had
Life, work, leisure balance
Spiritual development

These are some of the questions you may reflect on:

What have I developed well or mastered in 2011?
What do I have to congratulate myself on for 2011?
What little idea or ‘thing’ is waiting to emerge?
What challenges did I meet?
What areas could be improved?
What have I out-grown and need to shed?
What do I need to overcome?

When you have done your reflection, think of some of the goals you would like to develop in 2012. If you would like assistance in meeting your goals in 2012, please send us a message at: info@starmonde.com.au with the subject heading - My goals 2012 and your contact details. We will get back to you and provide further details about our coaching services and when we can meet.