Try Something Different in December

By Erinn Williams, LCPC

We’re heading into the new year fast.  There’s a lot to do and I’m sure your calendar is filling up, I know mine is!  You might find that your thoughts are largely hanging out in the future - anticipating events, making to-do lists, booking travel, etc.  Not to mention, come Jan. 1 the good ol’ New Years Resolutions start popping up in your social media feeds or are a topic amongst family and friends.

Who doesn’t like new beginnings and fresh starts?  So it’s natural to set our sights on the next year.  However, I’d like to propose something a bit different.  This year, why don’t we take this month to begin reflecting back on the year that has unfolded.  Sure, you’ll see the news recap of the major headlines.  You may get your Spotify Wrapped list.  But have you taken inventory of what the year was like for you?  Here are some questions to reflect back on:

Biggest Successes

Think back all the way to January 2021 - remember we were all still pretty much in lock down still. What do you feel you made progress toward this year?  Think professionally, personally, with family and friends, or various hobbies?

Most Grateful For

Allow your gratitude to extend beyond Thanksgiving.  This year, take a look back on what you felt fortunate to have, encounter, experience, be a part of, get, and give.  Who in your life has made the most positive impact?  What kept you going?

Moments of Regret

While we may want to only ponder the positives, it’s important to learn by observing the things we wished we did differently.  As you think about this, however, try to do it judgement-free.  We all do things we wish we could take back, we all make mistakes, but let’s learn from them.

The Hardest Moments You Got Through

As the saying goes, you’ve gotten through every bad day you’ve ever had.  Take a moment to reflect back on how you managed to get through them and if you’re still in a hard moment, realize that you’ve gotten through to the other side before.

The Most Joy Filled Moments

When did you experience moments where you were joyful?  What took your breath away or filled you with awe?  When did you feel most connected?  List out the memories of this year you never want to forget.

Though our tendency is to want to keep moving forward, allow yourself time and space to reflect.  Mentally bookmark the things you want to hold onto.  I wish you all a happy and reflective New Year!