Reflect and Recharge

Written By Rebecca Plachte-Zuieback

As the year ends, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect on your journey, and recharge for the year ahead. This month focuses on celebrating growth, processing lessons learned, and setting intentions for the future.

Weekly Themes for Reflect and Recharge

Week 1: Reflect on the Year

Focus: Acknowledge accomplishments, challenges, and lessons.

·       Daily Prompts:

    • What am I most proud of achieving this year?

    • What challenges did I overcome, and how did they shape me?

    • What brought me the most joy or fulfillment?

·       Activity:

    • Create a “Year in Review” journal entry or visual collage. Highlight moments of growth, joy, and meaningful connections.

Week 2: Celebrate Wins

Focus: Honor progress, big or small, and express gratitude.

·       Daily Prompts:

    • Who or what made a positive impact on my life this year?

    • What personal qualities helped me navigate this year’s challenges?

·       Activity:

    • Write thank-you notes to people who supported you.

    • Treat yourself to a day of self-care or a favorite activity as a reward for your efforts.

Week 3: Recharge and Rest

Focus: Prioritize rest, relaxation, and restoration.

·       Daily Prompts:

    • How can I recharge my energy and nurture myself today?

    • What can I let go of to create more space for rest and joy?

·       Activity:

    • Declutter a space to prepare for a fresh start in the new year.

    • Schedule time for restorative practices like yoga, meditation, or reading.

Week 4: Set Intentions for the New Year

Focus: Transition from reflection to goal-setting and envisioning the year ahead.

·       Daily Prompts:

    • What values will guide me in the coming year?

    • What habits or practices do I want to continue or start?

    • What is one thing I’m excited to accomplish next year?

·       Activity:

    • Create a vision board or write a letter to your future self with your hopes and goals for the new year.

Reflective Activities

1.     Gratitude Jar:

    • Write down moments you’re thankful for and place them in a jar. Read them at the end of the month to celebrate the year.

2.     Guided Meditation:

    • Use a meditation app or YouTube video to practice letting go of the past year and welcoming the new one.

3.     Year-End Ritual:

    • Light a candle, reflect on the past year, and write down anything you want to release. Burn the paper (safely!) as a symbolic act of letting go.

Recharge Tips

·       Create a Winter Wellness Routine:

    • Drink warm herbal teas, bundle up for outdoor walks, and nourish yourself with comforting, healthy meals.

·       Connect with Loved Ones:

    • Host a small gathering or have a phone/video call to share reflections and aspirations with family or friends.

·       Practice Intentional Downtime:

    • Take breaks from screens, immerse yourself in hobbies, and enjoy slow mornings or evenings.

 

Rebecca Plachte-Zuieback