The importance of self-reflection

Our experiences shape us, and here at Therapy Directory we think a certain level of self-reflection is important. It isn’t about obsessing over the past, it’s about learning from the past and using what we’ve learnt to help us create a purposeful future.

While you may want to dive straight into setting goals and intentions, but taking some time to reflect on the past first is incredibly useful.

Doing this needn’t be a chore. There are plenty of reflection journals and prompts online to help, but all you really need is a pen, some paper and your brain.

Below are some questions to ask yourself – get cosy with a cup of tea and your favourite notebook:

What have you achieved?

Think about the achievements that have made you proud, what area did they fall into? (work, family life, learning etc.) How did you make these achievements happen? Did they give you as much joy as you expected? Looking back at what you’ve achieved gives you the confidence to keep making things happen!

What did you not achieve?

Was there something you wanted to do, but didn’t? Think about the barriers that stood in your way, how could you overcome them? Can you overcome them? It may be that you have to take a different path.

What makes you happy?

Our priorities are constantly changing, so it’s good to check in with yourself every now and then. When do you feel truly happy? How can you feel this more often? Use this list to help you set goals for the future.

What have you learnt?

Even when things don’t go your way, there is usually a lesson to be learnt. Think about what you’ve learnt over the last 12 months – what can you take away from this? Use this knowledge to make attainable plans.