Skip to main content

The Nurturing Practice of Reflecting on The Past Year

The Nurturing Practice of Reflecting on The Past Year by Kelley Grimes at Cultivating Peace and Joy

“Time and reflection change the sight little by little ‘till we come to understand.”

~Paul Cezanne

 

Last evening walking on the beach at sunset, I was moved by the profound beauty and the amazing way the light reflected on the clouds, ocean and sand. The remarkable sunset continued to unfold and became more and more beautiful as it progressed. I was awed by the reflection on the sand and it reminded me of how important reflection is in witnessing our own unique brilliance and beauty.

 

As we head toward the New Year, we have a beautiful opportunity to pause and reflect on the past year and how we expressed our light in the world. Creating nurturing practices of reflection helps us cultivate self-awareness, which is critical for living with intention.  When we see the process as self-nurturing and come from a place of self-compassion, our reflection supports our continued growth and mindful choices.

 

Here is one nurturing practice for reflecting on the past year. Like with all nurturing practices, take a few minutes to create a beautiful space to give yourself your full attention. Pull out your favorite journal and pen, light a candle, and pour yourself your favorite drink.

 

Now take a moment to breathe and connect with yourself. Place your hand over your heart for a moment to remind you of your choice to be loving and kind to yourself as you answer the following questions:

 

  1. What are you most proud of about yourself from the past year?

 

  1. What was the greatest lesson you learned from 2017?

 

  1. What nurturing practice most supported you?

 

  1. What habit did not serve you that you want to transform in 2018?

 

  1. What will you need to let go of in order to cultivate more peace and joy in 2018?

 

  1. What support do you need to nurture yourself deeply in the New Year?

 

  1. What are you most grateful for about yourself?

 

When we take the time to reflect on how we are learning and growing, we feel more empowered, which builds more confidence and belief in our abilities. When we feel more gratitude about our lives and appreciation for ourselves, we are able to take more inspired action from a filled-up place and shine our light more brightly in the world.

 

The world needs each of us more than ever to live our authentic purpose, to cultivate more peace and joy, and to reflect more love and kindness in the world. Remember our attention in a powerful form of love, so be sure to give yourself the gift of your own attention through this nurturing practice of reflection. I wish you a very happy New Year!

 

May your coming year be filled with peace and joy and may you continue to nurture peace in the world from the inside out!

Kelley Grimes

Sending you so much peace, love and gratitude,

Kelley Grimes, M.S.W.
Counselor, Author & Speaker

Sign up to receive daily reminders with our mobile app!

Join the discussion 13 Comments

Leave a Reply