We have already reached the end of 2021, and on Saturday we will open a new book with 365 blank pages waiting to be filled. A wonderful moment to look back on the past year.
So often we rush through our days, caught up in the demands of daily life. I notice that I really value taking a moment to pause and reflect on everything that has happened, where I have focused my attention, and which successes I have achieved. At the same time, I also reflect on the areas that received less attention and where there is still room for growth.
Recently, a Facebook memory from two years ago appeared, showing that on December 30th I signed the contract for the purchase of land and the construction of a house. The house was completed this past summer, which turned into an intense but incredibly exciting rollercoaster. Today, I live there with great joy.
It is fair to say that one of the main themes of this year for me has been my home.
Besides reflecting, this is of course also a wonderful moment to look ahead. A brand-new year lies before us, filled with new possibilities and opportunities. So the question is: where do you want to focus your attention in the year ahead?
I have developed my own method for this, which I use every year and am happy to share. Below you will find some practical tools you can use if you would like to work on this yourself. It helps you gain insight into where you want to focus — and, just as importantly, where you want to focus less.
It can be helpful to divide your life into different areas. You will notice that it is impossible to give full attention to all areas at the same time, and this approach helps create clarity and focus. Below are a few examples:
Family
Health
Social connections
Work
Financial
Love
Personal growth
Leisure time
Home
Ask yourself the following questions:
What were the highlights of the past year?
Which areas did you focus on the most?
What was 2021 not about for you?
What would you have liked to see done differently?
What do you want to take with you into 2022?
Which three of the areas listed above do you want to focus on in the coming year?
How will you approach this in a concrete and practical way?
Now that we are spending more time at home due to the lockdown, these questions may also be a great way to start meaningful conversations together on New Year’s Eve.
If you notice that you find this challenging or feel the need to reflect together with someone, please feel free to let me know. I would be happy to support you.
Wishing you much success, inspiration, and of course a very happy New Year’s Eve! ✨