Holidays: A Time to Reflect On Our Past, Present, and Future Stories
Unlike Ebenezer Scrooge, we aren’t forced to reflect on our past, present, and future at the end of the year. But maybe we ought to do it voluntarily for our own growth.
At the end of the year, the dominant story is often that we need to be happy, we need to look forward and set goals, and we need to be other-focused. Disputing these dominant stories, it is important to pay attention to a few things that may reflect a more authentic experience for many.
It’s Okay Not To Be Happy
There is a certain cheer that feels attached to holiday time. It is important to recognize that this time of year is not exclusively joyful, and can unearth pain around relationships, family, and self-worth. The holidays are an opportunity to take stock of our story, think about who we are, and where we’re headed in our lives. It can be a positive exercise to use our past challenges as lessons to inform what comes next. In turn, this helps us become more intentional and present in our day-to-day. At the same time, this process can be difficult and dredge up a lot, so allow yourself to honestly feel what you feel. Even if it’s less than cheerful.
It’s Okay To Look Back
Reflection keeps us accountable, keeps us learning, and keeps us pointed towards bettering ourselves. It is common to get swept up in life’s forward-marching pace without pausing. Yet, we would be remiss to endlessly move forward without stopping or turning around once in a while. There is much to be gained by examining our journey. Do you feel like you’re generally getting closer to your what you envision for yourself? Have you gotten a bit distracted or had to put some things on hold? Have you found that your goals have changed?
It’s Okay To Focus On Yourself
The holidays are known to be an other-oriented time, centered around giving gifts or acts of service. Still, during these unique, reflective times, it’s important to remember yourself. How you have grown and what you have accomplished. Try to let unmet goals drive you forward with aspiration rather than regret. Be kind to yourself as you incorporate who you were with who you are now and who you’re becoming. Remember that it’s all part of your unique and evolving story.
What comes up for you when you reflect on the past year? Tell us about it in the comments below.
