Time is relative and that is never more obvious than on New Year's Eve. You might have your list of New Year's resolutions already to go on January 1, but they are forgotten by January 31. This situation can be compounded if you are retired. You are not in the resolution state of mind. Then, in a blink, it is the end of another year. How did your year go? Instead of making resolutions, try reflecting on this past year and discover how your year really went!
Even if you didn’t have a plan, here are some questions to help you recall what you did, or didn’t do.
· Major Accomplishment: What was your biggest accomplishment this year? What goal did you achieve that you’re most proud of?
· Challenges and Growth: What was the most significant challenge you faced this year and how did you overcome it? What did you learn about yourself during this challenging time?
· Relationship Dynamics: How did your relationships with family and friends evolve this year? Who made a significant positive impact on your life?
· Positive Experiences: What was your favorite memory from this past year? What brought you the most joy?
· Areas of Improvement: What are the areas where you feel you could have done better this year? What changes can you make to address these areas?
· Gratitude: What are you most grateful for this year?
· Self-Awareness: What did you learn about yourself this year?
· Future Goals: What are your top priorities and goals for the coming year? What steps can you take to achieve them?
· Time Management: How did you utilize your time this year? What could you have done differently to manage your time more effectively?
· Biggest Surprises: What was the biggest surprise or unexpected event that happened this year?
· Biggest Mistake: What was your biggest mistake this year, and what lesson did you learn from it?
These are general questions that can be tailored to your life. Why go through this review? As you get older it is so easy to fall into a routine that is just ‘routine’. Your brain needs stimulation, mental challenges, novelty, exercise, fun, and the ability to grieve and learn resilience. When your biggest statement at the end of the year is “Where did the year go?” then you have done your brain a disservice. Reflect on these questions and honestly answer them. You will have your bearings on where you are in your life. Celebrate the accomplishments and think seriously about the challenges. It will increase your life satisfaction and give you a sense of fulfillment. The goals for the New Year will then have meaning and give you the promise of a Happy New Year!
