Here we are again at the start of another year. And as usual, I find myself enjoying the opportunity to think about what’s to come and what has passed over the previous trips around the sun.

While I’m not one for resolutions, I do think the new year offers space for reflection. It’s perfect for a review of successes, mistakes, milestones, and setting the next steps. It’s an excellent time to pause.

What Are Your Lessons Learned from 2021?

This year was a year of change for me. I adopted two new dogs who have tumultuous histories. I quit my job. I moved. I lost and gained friends. I watched my mental health deteriorate and then watched it recover. I learned so much.

I’d never suggest that my lessons are relevant for everyone, but there have been shared themes I’ve seen come out of 2021:

  • People stay where they feel heard and appreciated (great resignation anyone?!)
  • Your mental health is your health
  • People will treat you how you allow them to
  • A life without boundaries is a life without peace
  • Only your mindset dictates your ability to reach your potential
  • Authenticity is key in building trust and relationships

What lessons have you learned that you are taking into 2022? 

What Are The Questions You’ll Ask Yourself for 2022?

I’d argue that 2022 offers more opportunities for growth and change than years before. We are seeing a real shift in our culture, thanks in large part to the pandemic and social unrest of the past couple of years.

Work is going remote. The office is no longer the sacred temple it was once considered.

We are acknowledging our problematic history. While not solved by any means, we are seeing more discussions come into the light on disparities for underrepresented groups and minorities.

We are putting ourselves first. This is an evolving shift but we’re seeing the shift as people put home life, family life, and personal life in higher priority than it’s been before.

Moving into the new year, I’m continuing the focus on how to improve myself. No need for New Year, New Me here though! I want to be a better version of myself, not a different version. So as I move into the new year, I’m taking note of how I processed the lessons I’ve learned and am asking myself questions (courtesy of Nedra Glover Tawwab) questions to help me continue to change.

What questions will you ask as you reflect to help you find greater peace in 2022?