My favourite Christmas present, (it’s the same every year) is a photo book that my wife compiles, of the Lusty family adventures for that year. Apparently, it’s the most stressful thing she does but it’s a brilliant reminder and celebration of what we’ve been up to as a family. A chance to reflect and put the year to bed, or the bookshelf in this case.
Photo albums or not, the festive break allows most of us the time and space needed to reflect on how the year has been. The high’s, the lows and everything in between.
I find there’s something energising about bookmarking the year and setting my sights on what’s to come.
And as I reflect, it reminds me that I need to take the time to reflect more.
The speed of life today is so different to that of my grandparents, even my parents. 60 years ago, life ran to a slower rhythm. People had time to sit down in the evenings and revisit their day. They had the time, albeit not in a particularly structured way, to reflect on their day which gave them the headspace to move forward.
I find that refection allows me to better connect with my emotions and what’s going on in my head. These are powerful resources, that if we become more conscious of, I can use to get more focus and create positive actions into my life.
So, if you’re struggling for a new year’s resolution, I have one for you. Create time and space to reflect. Ideally at the end of each day, if not then the end of every week. Some might see reflection as an inert and passive activity that holds little value. I see it as an essential discipline for awareness, focus and growth. Here’s my 3 point hard sell on the benefits of regular reflection.
The challenge is that when we fall behind even though we're working hard, our response is often just to work harder. But in terms of working smarter, we should take time for reflection. That said, I don't see a lot of organisations that encourage employees to reflect—or give them time to do it.
So, I’m going to make it easy for you by suggesting a structure that works for me. First up you need to block out some time, otherwise it just won’t happen. So go into your diary now and book out the 10 mins after lunch on Friday.
Next up, download the Talk it Out app and go into the Friday Flip. Then go for a walk and talk, using the app, to reflect on your week. Highlights, challenges, feelings, thoughts, and next steps.
It’s a simple and energising way to reflect each week and helps you get clear on where you’ve been and therefore where you’re going.
And for those who need a bit more help focusing on what you truly want from this year then check out the new challenge in the app called “Get More From 24” – a game changer of a challenge that helps you make the most of every moment so you can thrive and not just survive.
Here's to a great 2024!
Jim, Chris, Neil and the rest of the Elvis team xxx
If re-energising your team is on your agenda for 2024, get in contact as we’d love to help!
