Generally, when I am on holiday between Christmas and New Year, I grab my journal and do a year end review. I find it’s a great way to gain perspective on the year and set-up my mindset for the following year.

2020 is going to be a year remembered. There’s been so much happen that has rocked us. We will have all experienced this ‘unprecedented year’ in different ways. What counts is your story. These questions will help you unpack it.

So grab a pen and jot down your thoughts to the following questions. If journalling is not for you, talking with a friend can be equally if not more powerful. However you do it, it’s worthwhile to take stock and reflect.

1. What am I grateful for?

No matter what has happened during this year there will be things to be grateful about. It can be found in the little things of life as well as in the big. The science supports a gratitude practice as strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness and wellbeing. Being grateful helps us feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships. By focusing on the good in our life we rewire our brain for positivity.

2. What am I proud of?

What did you do, create, accomplish or give this year that you are proud of? This is a personal review, so choose those things that matter to you, no matter how big or small they may seem to others. Again think of examples from all areas of your life. Keep adding to the list by asking “what else?”

3. What did I learn?

What challenges did you face this year? How did you grow from this challenge? What did you learn that will be helpful for next year?

The 3 questions above will set you on track to think abut your goals and aspirations for 2020. However If you wish to take the exercise further, add the following questions.

4. What do I need to let go of?

This question helps us make space for the new year. Is there something you are doing which it’s time to stop doing? Are there things that are cluttering your life? Are there emotions that need to be released (e.g. resentments, anger, guilt, embarrassment)? Or stories that no longer serve you?

5. What is incomplete?

What is unfinished from this year, that you would like to complete or pick-up again next year?

What are my aspirations?

This leads you to focusing on the future and what you aspire to create. Some responses may fall out naturally after answering the 5 questions above. Or come back to it fresh in a separate session in 2021.

Brainstorm what aspirations you have in all areas of life which are important to you. For example your relationships, health, wellbeing, career, business, spiritual, development and recreational goals.

When you reflect on what you aspire to for 2021 (and beyond), and allow yourself to dream a little (or better dream a lot!), your brain will follow your lead and discover new ways to think, to act, and for you to express yourself.

Wishing you all the best for the holiday season and the New Year.

p.s. If you would like support to review your year and/or develop a plan around your aspirations and intentions for 2021, let’s discuss. Contact Ava regarding a coaching session.