End-of-Year Introspection: Taking a Break to Feel Good

It’s not always easy to give yourself time to rest and reflect, especially when taking care of a loved one and when our daily lives are already busy. Let’s say, first, that doing a retrospect is by no means an obligation and, second, that you don’t have to follow a specific model if you want to do one. Karine prefers to write a long letter that she safekeeps and read the next year. Claire escapes into nature for a few hours to walk and reflect. Guillaume does his year-end review in the form of a conversation with his family over a fondue.

If you’re up for it, here are some things to think about. Feel free to add your own to it.

How to prepare a year-end introspection?

Here are some things to consider in order to be well prepared:

• Set aside a time frame of about 1 to 2 hours and put it in your agenda;
• Sit in a quiet place where you will not be disturbed or distracted;
• Equip yourself with writing materials: paper and pencil or computer.

What questions should you ask yourself?

Here are some sample questions to guide you in your reflection and help you take stock.

• What are the events, big or small, for which I’m grateful?
• What went less well?
• What made me feel good?
• What am I proud of?
• What did I learn?
• Who are the important people around me?

Look to the future

The year-end introspection also allows us to project ourselves into the future. Here are some sample questions to guide you in your reflection:

• What could I change to feel better physically and mentally?
• What do I want to learn, improve this year?
• What do I want to move towards?

As you review your daily life, think about situations or habits that are draining your energy (insufficient sleep or exercise level, overwork, lack of support, etc.). Also, think about what helps you get better when you’re going through some tough times.

Specify one or two actions that would help your balance. For example, if the time spent in front of a screen in the evening proves to be harmful to your sleep, resolve to disconnect 1 hour before bed and indulge in a quieter activity.

If you need to catch your breath and reduce your stress level, call your CLSC or Caregiver Support. Resources exist to help you find solutions that meet your needs.