Reflection creates space to celebrate what is working well; consider our lessons in wisdom from a place to learn and our true priorities. Sharon K. Summerfield
Have you considered investing in yourself with an ongoing ritual of reflection?
In our busyness of life, it is so easy not to take the time to reflect. It is important we find those ways to consider all we are involved in and how this invests in our wellbeing.
First, begin with a calendar reflection, where you look forward and a daily reflection you do at the end of the day. And then if you are so inclined consider building on your daily reflection with an annual reflection.
Part One – Begin with a Calendar Reflection – looking forward
As you begin your reflection consider a few questions, remembering this is your calendar.
Is everything captured in my calendar my true priorities?
Do I have transition time between each meeting and event?
The lack of transition time between each and everything we are doing is impacting our well-being.
Can I delegate this meeting to another person?
Or for this meeting or event, do I say yes to myself and send regrets?
Scheduling space for ourselves is not a selfish act.
In fact, finding ways to nourish ourselves and attend to our needs often requires that we put it on the calendar…
–Janice Marturano, from the book Finding the Space to Lead
Part Two – Daily Reflection at the end of each day
For me, I like to do this at the end of each day, asking myself some simple questions.
What went well today?
Did I focus on my true priorities?
What were my lessons in wisdom?
As you reflect are there any patterns you are noticing?
Take some time to look at these patterns first through the lens of your strengths, and consider potential changes.
Then create your intention for tomorrow.
This is a beautiful way to bring closure to the day.
If you have not discovered the power of a reflection ritual, I encourage you to, begin. Start small, by carving out 10 minutes at the end of each day.
We only have 168 hours in each week. Through reflection, we find those ways to focus on our true priorities that align with our values.
We can make different choices on how we spend our time and energy, where asking for help, taking breaks, and scheduling downtime is celebrated and encouraged.