Closing the Year Peacefully

By mid-December, we’ve usually started looking back on the year and taking inventory. For me, that reflection has often come with self-judgment.

When I worked in corporate roles, this was the time to write my year-end self-assessment. By the end of it, I usually acknowledged my accomplishments were significant and felt pride.

But I also found myself fixating on what I didn’t finish, where I could have done things differently, or where I thought I should be by now.

When the Inner Critic Takes Over

That inner critic shows up in other ways too, around food, exercise, and health. The familiar refrain of: I could have done more.

I’ve been learning to counter that voice with a little more compassion. To focus on and celebrate what I have done instead of what I haven’t, no matter how small. To remind myself that this body gave me my life and my children, and for that I’m deeply grateful.

We can’t change what has already happened this year, but we can choose how we close it.

Choosing Gentleness as We Close the Year

Instead of asking, “Why didn’t I do more?” try asking, “What am I most proud of?”

If you’re open to it, take a minute and name three things you handled or survived this year that don’t usually get credit.

Remember that the calendar is arbitrary. You don’t need to squeeze anything else into these last weeks to prove yourself. The world won’t end because you left a few things unfinished.

You’re allowed to rest now.

💛

Reflection Question: What are three things you’re proud of handling or surviving this year, even if no one else noticed?

✨ If this spoke to you, I’d love for you to subscribe to my blog or connect with me on LinkedIn. And if you’d like support in reflecting on the year and gently letting go of what doesn’t need to come with you into the next one, the Holiday Triage Session offers space to do just that.