So many of us are trying to move into 2021 with intention to make it a better year.
I personally used a series of reflection questions as a tool to do this. I shared these questions with many of my clients and have gotten great feedback. I feel called to share these questions with you too, so you have a specific tool to set your intentions for 2021. Note: Please check out the blog post from Eugene Therapy Group where the journal prompts originated.
In completing this exercise, one reflection that brought surprise (for me and many of my clients too) was that the best and worst thing in 2020 for mental health seemed to be born of the same circumstance. I’ll share my personal example:
The worst for me was moving from downtown St. Louis and losing my preferred mode of walking as exercise. Moving to the country interrupted my routine, route, and physical sense of safety when walking alone.
Flip the coin and the best thing for my mental health was moving to the country. The beauty of the lake outside my backdoor, the quiet, the stillness at night, the brightness of the stars, the sunrises and sunsets, the many birds and animals that visit are just a few of my daily blessings.
Mainly, country living has been a balm on the wound of the pandemic. It has granted me space and buffered the pain of losing what I most loved about city dwelling (the walkability to restaurants, ballgames, events, crowds of people, living in a high rise, etc.). Living in the country has also afforded me precious time with my children and grandchildren…overnights, swimming in the lake, hiking, bonfires…collecting unforgettable memories along the way.
I don’t think I would have had the same appreciation and gratitude had I not gone through this exercise. Journaling the joys and challenges of 2020 gave me insight and perspective. Looking ahead to 2021, it gives me hope. My wish is that this exercise is of value to you also. Enjoy!!
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12 Mindful Journaling Prompts to Reflect on 2020
Reflecting on 2020
What’s been the best and worst thing for my mental health this year? (Pay attention to when you’ve felt your best/worst.)
What/Who have I tolerated this year that I no longer have space for?
What has my self-care looked like this year? (How did you spend your time taking care of yourself?)
Who have I felt most supported and safe with? (Let them know how much you’ve appreciated them this year.)
What is something that I accomplished this year that I’m proud of? (This can be big or small).
What am I grateful for this year? (Take a moment to fully appreciate what you feel thankful for despite current circumstances.)
Looking Ahead to 2021
How am I feeling about this upcoming year?
How can I show up for myself in the New Year? (Dig deep: What do you need to prioritize for your well-being? What boundaries do you need to set?)
Consider what you want to say “yes” to and what you want to say “no” to this year.
What goal would most excite me to accomplish during this upcoming year? (Focus on setting SMART - specific realistic, and, measurable, achievable, timely - goals.)
Which relationships do I want to nurture this year? (How can you prioritize quality time with your friends and family?)
What am I looking forward to in the future? (It’s okay to be excited for what’s to come after difficult times.)
Credit: Eugene Therapy Group