Signing off on 2022!

For as long as I can remember, this period between Christmas and New Years has been a time of journaling, reflecting and a sacred time for self. Whether it be guided by a newly gifted book or prompts I have found online, I will always sit down (usually looking out at a view) and document the year that was. Only then do I begin to plan and dream about the year that will be.

I find it meaningful to sit and marinate in the closing year first! Many of us can be quick to dismiss it and want to move on hastily, particularly if the months have not been filled with the things we wished for most. I believe though, there are lessons to uncover, as leaders, lovers, friends, family members and more. These lessons are found within all of life’s moments, and we should choose to explore them. Not judge them, over analyse them or reprimand ourselves over them, but curiously ask ourselves questions about how and what occurred. You may find when exploring these lessons you will uncover courage and bravery you didn’t realise you displayed. You may note how your communication has improved and/or begin to witness the ways in which you were more willing or open. Answering these questions below could even lead you to learn of the closeness you found in certain friends along the way.

If you feel inclined to, I encourage you to join me. Let’s reflect on the year that was, only then will I move on to the new year. I find this process provides me with an opportunity to connect deeper to myself and sometimes can even offer gentle closure and/or acceptance and celebration. This is why I describe this reflection as a marination, sitting in the year that is to offer a depth of flavour to 2022!

Before you start answering these questions (which by the way can be done in conversation with a trusted friend, via thoughts as you read through, written confidentially in a journal, or typed into your phone), it is a good idea to list off the months of the year and any standout events that occurred at work, home, or perhaps with friends. Personally, I do this by looking back over my ‘Project 365’ the one photo a day app I have been using for many years. If you don’t have the app and you have a pen and paper perhaps write the months of the year down with a gap between each and then think of 10 events that you can list and allocate them to each month. You could also scroll back through your social media posts to provoke events too!

Pic taken from a weekend away for myself at Billabong retreat in NSW.

So here goes, set yourself up in a quiet spot with no distractions, read/question in any order and with no time pressure... what did 2022 offer you?

If you were to describe your year in three words, what would they be and why?

List your top five highlights of the year!

Which one was your favourite and why?

What moments of celebration did you take part in?

What new places did you visit in 2022?

What was the biggest challenge you overcame in 2022?

Are there current obstacles that you are still working through?

Who are they people you are grateful for this year?

What did the year tell you, uncover for you or unveil?

What acts of service and/or support did you offer this year?

Describe two moments that surprised you the most?

What incremental change have you witnessed in yourself throughout the year? Perhaps you have been more disciplined with your exercise or had the courage to say no more?

One of the reasons I continue to share my thoughts with you is because of the beautiful messages I receive when you read. THANK YOU for inspiring me to share more, it just takes one! If you feel so like it, I would really love to hear from you and perhaps one of your answers to a question. You are also welcomed to comment on how you found the process. Perhaps you have a question you use to reflect on the year and are willing to let me add. Please reach out, I would really love to hear from you! Over the coming days I will post my top highlights and challenges.

Happy 2022, see you in the New Year!

With LOVE from Bel x