self-reflection journaling It helps you end the year and start the new year with intention.
It’s that time of year when we often hear about making New Year’s resolutions. Gyms, nutritionists, life coaches, and yoga studios are offering “New Year, New You” specials.
In any case, most resolutions are hastily made and abandoned within the first few weeks of January. Writing in a journal is a great way to prepare for the coming year.
Big benefits of self-reflection journaling:
If journaling reminds you of your pre-teen years when you confessed your darkest secrets and crushes in a diary with a little lock, it might be time to reframe your thinking about what journaling is and the benefits it brings. not.
Research shows that journaling can have a huge positive impact on our mental health. Keep a diary or expressive writingit can clarify thoughts and emotions, aid in problem solving, reduce anxiety, improve cognitive function, counteract the negative effects of stress, and even enhance mental stress. immune system.
Reflective journaling is a great way to start the year with intention. You will be able to reflect on the past year and clearly set goals for the coming year.
It turns out your mom may have been right when she told you to go put your feelings down on paper when you were feeling overwhelmed.
Why you need to practice mindful journaling + 6 tips to get started
31 Reflection Journal Tips for the New Year:
Use these writing prompts to help you become self-reflective, reflect on the past year, and plan for next year.
Review of last year:
- What goals did I achieve last year?
- What challenges did I face last year?
- What skills did I strengthen last year?
- What do you have to leave behind from last year?
- What are the three biggest lessons I learned last year?
- How has my yoga, meditation, and breathing practice grown over the past year?
- What caused you the most stress and frustration last year?
- What has given you the most joy or energy over the past year?
- What coping skills were most effective for me last year?
- What were some of my coping skills that were really disruptive last year?
- What surprised me most about myself last year?
- Who else couldn’t have gotten past these three last year?
- What risks did I take last year?
- What risks did you wish you had taken last year but were too scared to take?
- What are the five things I am most proud of that I did this year?
- What can I do today that I couldn’t do a year ago?
- What one word best sums up the past year? Why?
Common self-reflection prompts:
- The 10 things I like most about myself are ________________
- What do you need to make space and time for in your life?
- What do I spend so much space and time on in my life?
- On average, how much time do you spend on social media compared to connecting with others in person? Are you happy with this balance?
- What are the five things you can do to maintain your most important friendships?
- What are some simple rituals you can practice throughout the day to be more present in the moment?
- What self-limiting beliefs are holding me back?
New Year’s message:
- What are the three little things I’m manifesting for 2024?
- What is my big statement for 2024?
- How can you prevent the stress and frustration you felt last year from having such an impact on this year?
- What should I change in my daily and weekly schedule to make next year more successful?
- What self-care habits are most effective for me? How can I continue to do this this year?
- What risks will I take in 2024?
- What’s on your bucket list for 2024?
Need self-care ideas? Create a realistic self-care routine with 17 simple practices
Click here to learn how to create a reflection diary (it’s easy!)
There are no rules for self-reflection journaling. He can respond to January’s daily diary prompts one at a time, or you can sit down and respond to several questions together if he’s ready.
It helps you not lose sight of the details with expressive writing. You don’t have to worry about grammar, punctuation, or whether one sentence moves on to the next. Instead, focus on expressing and reflecting your thoughts and feelings.
It’s helpful to set up your journal to write when you have at least 15 minutes of uninterrupted time. Grab a cup of your favorite tea or drink, set your phone to silent mode, and turn on some music that helps you focus.
It’s up to you whether you write on paper or electronically, but there are benefits to both. Start with what feels most natural.
Start the new year with self-reflection journaling
If your New Year’s reflection journal still seems a little daunting, start with a simple gratitude list.
For tips on making your gratitude list impactful, see 3 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Gratitude List.
Self-reflection journaling is a great way to start the new year with intention. Bring out a range of emotions, reflect on the past year, and gain clarity to set goals for the coming year.
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