Always be reflecting…
re·flec·tion (noun): serious thought or consideration. (google definition)
What does it mean to reflect? How often should one reflect? Oftentimes, we reflect when an event rises or when we want to recharge and feel centered. Other times we reflect on memories, events that made us smile or taught us something, situations that occurred and how we handled them, or even when we are just alone in our thoughts reminiscing.
Reflection is deep and powerful. It can be an opportunity to sit still and be quiet to respect your thoughts ruminating. An opportunity to rebrand and shift to build a better you. An opportunity to ask yourself, “am I building for my future?” At the end of a new year- I believe we take time intentionally to reflect. We ask ourselves what our New Year’s goals will be and what will we leave behind. Always be reflecting and always be intentional with this space.
The year of 2021 was profound. A lot of firsts for many. As I reflect over the year- I look back and marvel over experiences, events, and adventures that the year captured. Those firsts that I’m not sure how my old self would handle. Those firsts that I am so proud of myself, and those firsts that I learned and grew from. The first Christmas without the magical energy of my grandma. The first solo trip I traveled to New York and dazzled in the culture that makes the city vibrant. The first investment for myself. The first rekindled friendships and the new traditions and memories that will be made.
Here is what I’ve learned:
Pray first, pray always. Be intentional with your quiet time with Jesus
Honor the space you are in and respect your own journey
Always make your bed
You’re needed and you have a purpose
Pour into yourself first so that your energy can overflow to others
Healing is not linear-it’s ever evolving and on your time
Give yourself and others Grace
No one is responsible for your healing and validation but yourself. Don’t bring unhealthy energy to project onto others
Understand your boundaries-what is healthy for you may not be for everyone
Discover what brings you peace
Just because you are a good person, life isn’t always good to you
Have an open mind and be open to learning something new- even if it is difficult to understand
Learn to accept and meet people where they are. No point in wasted energy over someone’s actions that wouldn’t reciprocate yours
Cultivate those creative outlets
Having close, supportive and nonjudgmental friends is a blessing
Do something spontaneous for yourself and have the courage to take that leap of faith
Therapy is strength. Make mental health and healing a priority. Healing yourself helps heal your connections
Family is fundamental
Understand your love language and those of your relationships (friends, family, partner)
Outgrow certain situations, people, entertainment, habits, lifestyle choices, vodka cranberry, food, etc. and don’t apologize for that. Keep learning and growing
Always openly say I love you after each encounter
Family time is important. Date nights are important. Alone time is important
Be intentional with your time, energy, heart, words, thoughts, and life
Check on your strong family and friends
You never know what journey someone is on. Please be kind
Gift someone special just because
Do things for you, even if it is by yourself, that’s powerful
Asking for help is not a weakness
Laugh hysterically and out loud
Listen with empathy and be present
What does reflection mean to you, and how are you being mindful of that space? How will you, always be reflecting?
