Source: CentralJersey.com/Penn Medicine
As 2023 officially begins, it is an opportune time to reflect on 2022 and think about what the new year looks like for you: What are the things that you hope to carry with you into 2023? What would you like to leave behind?
Self-reflection can give you the answer — indeed, is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself as you start a new year.
Self-reflection is defined by the American Psychological Association as the examination, contemplation, and analysis of one’s thoughts, feelings, and actions — and can have numerous benefits.
Self-reflection can:
• Help increase self-awareness and offer insight into what matters most to you so you can make informed life choices.
• Help you identify what served you well over the past year and what things you could do differently.
• Serve as an emotional unburdening that can leave your heart just a bit lighter.
People often become so caught up in the day-to-day routines that life can seem to just run on autopilot. Self-reflection is an opportunity to pause, check in with yourself, and learn from past experiences. This can help you continue to grow, evolve, and feel a sense of satisfaction with how far you’ve come.
There are many areas in your life that may warrant self-reflection, such as:
Relationships: How did you get along with your family? Your friends? Spouse/Partner? What about your colleagues at work?
Home life: What did life at home look like? Were you always rushing to take the kids somewhere? Did you accomplish that remodeling project that you set out to do?
Work or school life: What did you accomplish professionally or academically? What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
Health and wellness: How did you feel physically? Emotionally? Did you meet your fitness goals?
Social connections: Are you satisfied with your social life? What interactions or activities brought you joy? What are some things you might not do again?
Self-reflection is a skill that takes practice” while there is no “right way” to self-reflect, there are steps you can take to set yourself up for a meaningful experience.
If self-reflecting triggers complex emotions that are overwhelming or bring up feelings of anxiety, hopelessness, or helplessness, it could be beneficial to talk to a mental health professional who can help you navigate those feelings.
Penn Medicine Princeton House Behavioral Health offers treatment programs for adults, teens, and children for addressing behavioral health issues, developing coping skills, and regain quality of life.
For more information about Penn Medicine Princeton House Behavioral Health, call 888-437-1610 or visit PrincetonHouse.org.