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When was the last time you took some time for yourself to reflect on your life? Maybe it was at the end of last year when you were getting ready to welcome in the New Year? Other than that, do we really spend much time in self-reflection? The truth is, we’re all busy and we’re so focused on trying to move forward in our lives that we rarely take a moment to slow down and really get in tune with our thoughts and feelings. Another thing, we often don’t realise the importance of self-reflection and how it can really impact how we move forward in our lives.
What is self-reflection?
Self-reflection is the process of bringing your attention to what’s happening in your life in a mindful and open way. It’s about creating self-awareness and taking the time to understand what’s going on within us.
Self-reflection is one of the best ways to help shift your mindset. It’s so important for our mental health and wellbeing, and can increase positivity in our lives, as well as deepening the connection to yourself.
So, instead of self-reflection being a ‘once-a-year’ thing, what if you made it a part of your everyday routine?
Here’s why you should practice self-reflection daily:
Allows us to recognise change and track our progress
Self-reflection is a powerful tool that allows us to look back and see where we’ve come from. If you take the time daily to write down your thoughts, feelings and habits, you can look back on it in weeks, months, or years later and see how much has changed in your life. It can help you recognise that small things that you were worried about before were perhaps not so significant after all. It allows you to realign with yourself and see whether you’re on track with your goals and life purpose.
To live with more intention
Reflecting allows you to witness what you’re doing on a daily basis - are you living authentically? Are you chasing your dreams? It gives you the opportunity to add more joy, purpose and fun into your daily life and to live with more intent.
Increases our self-awareness
You need to know where you’re going and where you’re at right now. Self-reflection is such an eye-opener when it comes to fully understanding your emotions, values, goals and strengths. You can learn so much about yourself simply by reflecting on where you’re at right now - are you happy? Are you sad? Are you the best version of yourself? Looking inwards can help you discover - and get to - where you want to be.
Challenges your inner voice
You hold such immense power in your mind. Is what you say to yourself positive, or negative? Self-reflection offers you the opportunity to challenge your thinking and how you talk to yourself. Take the time and write these thoughts down, then, ask yourself if you really believe them. Turn your negative thoughts into positive ones. You’ll realise that the things you tell yourself about yourself are not always true. You can shift your mind into a positive place through reflecting.
Uncover breakthroughs
When we keep thinking the same thoughts over and over without taking action, our problems can spiral out of control and seem bigger than they really are. By taking some time to reflect and look within, you’ll more than likely find that you already have the answers you’ve been seeking.
To clarify thoughts
We keep so many thoughts and feelings floating around in our head. Often, we end up confusing or frustrating ourselves even more. This is where pen and paper can massively help reduce any stress or feelings of frustration. Get your thoughts on paper and you’ll begin to understand why you’re feeling a certain way as well as a way to make those feelings a little easier to navigate.
Getting started with self-reflection:
Now that you understand how important self-reflection is for growth, why not get started right now? Find somewhere you can be alone that is quiet and unlikely to be interrupted. Grab your journal, gratitude planner, pen and paper, or whatever you like to write on. Ask yourself how you’re feeling, what is on your mind right now, and if you’re where you’d like to be. Write down any thoughts and emotions you’re feeling. Keep this somewhere safe and close by. Repeat this process daily. When you look back, you’ll be amazed at how far you’ve come.
I hope this has encouraged you to add more time for self-reflection into your life. Remember, this isn’t about digging deep into your past and focusing on it, it’s about taking time to connect with yourself on a deeper level. It is a form of personal analysis that allows you to bring your life into alignment with what you wish it to be.
Are you self-reflecting daily? Let me know below!
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