Reflecting and Looking Forward

​We made it to 2021! This is the time of year many reflect on the previous year and set intentions for the upcoming year. You can use the knowledge you have from 2020 and to look forward and create your own intentions. It can be anything that resonates with you. Maybe it is experiencing joy and laughter, being present, self-acceptance, knowing you are enough or a specific goal. 

First, in order to get a clear picture of what 2021 might look like, we start with a reflection on 2020. While the pandemic has been a challenging time, it may also provided an opportunity to slow down, overcome challenges and work to understand ourselves better. 

2 tips for a productive 2020 reflection:

1. Ask yourself the following questions: What are some desirable changes you've see in your life in 2020? What have you learned about yourself? What strengths did you leverage in order to navigate challenges this year?  What are you grateful for? 

2. Identify what you want to take with you from this year into next. In your eagerness to move on from 2020, don't miss the chance to reflect on the strengths you gained and practiced to remain resilient through challenges. Great change brings the opportunity for growth.

After reflecting on 2020, it is now time to look ahead. 

​Step 1 - It is important to first take a moment to get a clear picture of what you want in 2021. What is the next way of being you want to step into? What is the experience of life you wish to experience? What would you like to create in 2021? What emotions do you hope to cultivate? Who do you want to be this year and how can you play an active role in creating this?

Step 2 - Create a visual reminder. You can write out words or draw pictures. You can also create a vision board to serve as a physical reminder of your goals.  Researchers found that, in athletes, visualization was almost as effective as physical practice. Choose photos and words that will help you visualize the long term goals or habits you hope to achieve and the emotions you associate with them. 

Step 3 - Make a plan. Break down your long term intentions into short term goals and celebrate each milestone to help keep you motivated. Also, choose an accountability partner, like a friend, a coach or therapist to support you! 

Step 4 - Practice self-compassion. Progress isn’t linear,  and sometimes we face unexpected setbacks. It is important to manage your self-talk when challenges arise in a way that will help you move forward. A key ingredient for staying resilient through adversity is self-compassion. 
 
I hope after walking through this quick exercise you can take your learnings from 2020 to create a clear vision for 2021 and know how you will make that vision a reality! Reach out if I can be of support on your journey.