Making Time For Self-Reflection

If there is one thing I dislike is the traditional ‘to-do’ list.  For some individuals, a to-do list is essential to migrating from one task to another, relishing the feeling of checking off each item.  For others, (present company included) the to-do list becomes an evolving depressing list with addendum’s such as ‘oh this too’, and ‘oh yeah, that too’, and before you know it, you have 27 ‘tasks’ to complete between Monday and Friday.  The reason why I dislike the to-do list is because there is no opportunity to appreciate accomplishments.  What about that deadline you met a day early? What about that extra mile you ran or the extra load of laundry you did just for kicks? What about the time you helped your neighbor by watering her plants?  All of these and many more can be considered mini-milestones, and reason to pat yourself on the back. Here’s the thing: if we don’t reflect on our accomplishments, we have no way of setting new goals. We have nothing to aspire to if we don’t recognize where we came from .

I periodically review my goal book, which is a collection of journal entries, pictures reminding me of my goals, and past accomplishments.  There is nothing better for my self-esteem than reviewing just how I attained my goals and redefining new ones.  I usually take a sheet of paper, and create 4 boxes: 1) what I am doing now, 2) what are my short-term goals, 3) what would be amazing and extraordinary to accomplish and 4) what I’ve already done.  Reviewing this grid quarterly is not only refreshing but helps me recognize what I am capable of and what is beyond my reach. Too often we set goals that are not SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely), and that can lead to emotional let downs and sadness, and of course, lowered self-esteem.

Here are some helpful starting points for self-reflection. Do them how often you prefer – I designed these questions to be asked monthly.

• What was my greatest accomplishment last month?
• What is one extraordinary thing I can do this month?
• What did I not like about myself last month?
• What did I do last month that completely surprised me?
• What is something I can do this month to de-stress or de-clutter my life?
• What is the most important thing I need to do this month?

As you start your regular self-reflection, your questions will evolve and the hope is that you will begin your new segment of time more refreshed and polished, having reflected on all your amazing accomplishments!

Feel free to share your ideas and offer your tips!