In this BIT: A New Year comes with an opportunity for self improvement and annual planning. Prepare your New Year Reflection with these reflection questions.
Have you ever heard the saying, the New Year is a blank canvas, but reflection holds the brush? While I strive to live in the present moment; as a teen, this can be a tough feat. We’re worried about all that the future holds, and what it’ll take to achieve the future we see for ourselves. Despite this challenging period within our lives, we should always seek ways to level-up, and work upon ourselves. Of course, self improvement can be found at any time, not just at the start of a new year. However, while we’re at the top of a new year, it is wise to set a positive foundation for the year to come – through reflection. Now, this proposes a further challenge, how can we reflect on 12 months full of experiences, emotions, change, growth, and development? Ask yourself (and invite a friend or family member to join you!), the five below questions to better understand how you’ve grown over the past 12 months. Even more so, participate in annual planning by writing your answers down, and reflecting upon them this time, next year.
What fear did I face?
Big or small, when we push through uncomfortable situations, we grow. Fear is powerful, and in the wrong context, it can hinder our growth, opportunities, and even happiness. What is one fear that you faced, experienced, and as a result, came out stronger?
What did I change my mind on this year?
It is far too easy to get caught up in our own patterns. We must always strive to learn more, and understand varying perspectives and facts of our world. Furthermore, it is essential to not get ‘locked in’ on any given opinion. What is one thing that you see in a different light now, than 12 months ago?
What drained me?
Life is full of non-controls; items that we must face, no matter how stressful they may be, as they are a part of our livelihood. For instance, work, school, or uncertainties such as illness. However, we can use this year’s annual planning to take advantage of the things within our control. Do so by recognizing what drained our energy and happiness this year, and reducing these in the New Year.
How did I measure happiness?
Money. Friends. Trips. Possessions. These are all quantifiable ways that we can be tempted to measure (and compare) our happiness levels. But perhaps it is more holistic to measure happiness as laughter, time with loved ones (even just a few people), and daily moments of gratitude. How did you evaluate your own happiness this year?
What is the biggest change you’ve experienced?
We often underestimate just how much can change within 12 short months. Perhaps we’ve moved, gained a new friend, lost a loved one, pivoted careers, found a new passion; just to name a few examples of change. Accepting and encouraging change in our lives is important – it brings excitement, growth, and new possibilities. What is one of the biggest changes that you’ve undergone this year – in a physical sense, or perhaps in your mindset.
We hope that these reflection questions bring you a sense of self improvement and excitement for the New Year, bringing a Small Bit of Happiness.
For more happiness check out our Mood Boost page.
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