December Already?

It's the time of year when we all stop and take the time to look back on the year that was, and in many cases, wonder where the time went; When we reflect on what was, what could have been, and perhaps what we could have done differently... and the time of year when we start making promises to ourselves to make changes for the next year.

But remember, everything that we've experienced, whether good, bad, positive or negative, are all learning points and opportunities to do things in a different way, the next time we're faced with the same or similar situation. It's not a time to be harsh or overly judgemental on ourselves and it's not the time to make yourself unrealistic promises. It's a time to be truthful and thankful, and I know that that isn't always easy to do.

For me personally, this past year has seen more downs than ups. It's been tumultuous at best. But, it has helped me appreciate the little sprinkles of good that I have encountered and it's given me the perspective to really look closely and be honest with myself about what I like, what I don't like, what I want more of and what I simply will not tolerate anymore. It's shown me where I need to adjust my boundaries and when I need to stop and take care of myself. And most of all, this year has taught me what I will not allow, any longer (which has been difficult when I can be quite giving of my time and energy to others).

And this, my dear readers, is self growth; Your personal growth and self awareness. This is your personal journey and self-awareness about what you need to do in your life to improve your own physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs, to create a more fulfilling life for yourself. A time when you celebrate your own success and also make adjustments to the areas in your life that didn't go as well as you would have liked. A time when you are really truly honest with yourself.

It's also a time when you writing things down or journalling, may benefit you in understanding more of yourself and enabling you the time to do a deep reflection on the past year.

Here are some questions to get you started:

• What are you most proud of from this past year?

• What were your biggest achievements?

• What were the set backs or challenges faced?

• What could you have done differently?

• What skills or knowledge have you learnt?

• How have you grown / changed / evolved?

• How did you prioritise your self-care?

• Were there any physical or mental goals that you set for myself and did you achieve them?

• What are you grateful for?

• How have you expressed your gratitude? (To yourself and/or others?)

• Did you balance your home and work lives?

• Did you have enough time to do things that make you happy? (i.e. hobbies or interests)

• How effectively did you manage your time and priorities?

• Were there any commitments that took up most of your time or ones that took up too much of your time?

• Do you need to change or adjust any of your commitments?

• Do you have any regrets?

• Were there any highlights of the year?

Remember that there are no right or wrong answers for these questions. This is about reflection and self-discovery. It's also something that you should try to incorporate regularly throughout the year - it's not something that is just reserved for the end of the year.

Because greater self awareness leads to greater growth and more visible opportunities for change. And that leads to a healthier and happier life. And isn't that what we're all striving for?