The Winter Solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year, is a time of transition and reflection. As the natural world enters a period of rest and renewal, it offers us an opportunity to pause, reflect on the year behind us, and plan for the year ahead. It’s a powerful moment to assess what has worked, what hasn’t, and where you want to focus your energy as the days grow longer.
In the spirit of reflection and intentionality, here are 10 journaling questions to guide your planning and reflection at this significant turning point:
1. Reflecting on the Year
- What are three achievements from this year that I am most proud of?
- What challenges did I face, and how did I grow from them?
- What habits, relationships, or commitments no longer align with my values or goals?
- What do I want to let go of before the new year begins?
- What have I learned about myself this year?
- In what ways have I surprised myself with my resilience or creativity?
- What are three things I want to focus on or achieve in the coming year?
- What steps can I take now to set myself up for success in those areas?
- What do I want to invite more of into my life in the new year—joy, rest, connection, or something else?
- How can I create more balance between my personal and professional life?
The Power of Solstice Reflection
The Winter Solstice invites us to embrace both the darkness and the light—the quiet moments of introspection and the anticipation of new beginnings. This duality mirrors the rhythm of our lives, reminding us that rest and renewal are essential for growth.
Reflection helps us acknowledge the lessons of the past year and carry them forward, while planning enables us to align our actions with our values and goals. By engaging in both, you create a roadmap for personal and professional growth that is intentional and meaningful.
Your Next Step
Take time this Winter Solstice to sit with these questions. Light a candle, pour yourself a warm drink, and carve out a quiet moment to journal. Use this practice to close the chapter of this year with gratitude and clarity, and open the next with purpose and vision.
The Winter Solstice is a reminder that even in the darkest times, the light returns. Let this be your moment to set intentions and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead.
CEO, Head Coach and Author
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