At the end of each year, I take a look back to remember the significant experiences that happened during the year. It seems like it was only yesterday that the new year started, but in reality, it was a long year.
When I do look back, I try to determine whether this was a great year, a good year, or a year in which I could have done better. Did I grow as a person? Did I help many people, personally and professionally? Did I support enough charities? Did I make new friends and grieve the ones I lost? Did I enrich my life in any way?
Looking back, I also consider how I want to improve and what I want to accomplish in the new year.
I am happy to answer yes to almost all of the above questions. Taking an inventory of the year by looking at my writings and pictures, I can say that despite everything, this was a good year.
Professionally, I assisted some patients in reducing their conflicts, staying sober, and improving their lives and marriages. I grew the practice by onboarding an extremely qualified pediatric psychologist. I learned some new skills and made some new business contacts.
Personally, I did some traveling including a cruise where I actually went snorkeling, for the first time. I traveled through Florida and visited some historic sites. I made some new friends but lost my sister-in-law to illness. I also welcomed a new member into my family.
Isn’t this what living is really all about? I believe in personal growth, benefiting from new experiences, improving your health, helping others, and appreciating those in your life.
This reflection upon the past year proves to me that I have been living and experiencing life.
But what about you? Do you look back at the end of each year and remember what happened? Do you set personal goals for the new year?
Give it a try. It may enrich your life.
Best wishes for a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season and an Enriching New Year.
