There are just a couple of weeks left in 2018. The end of the year, like any kind of ending or beginning, is a natural space for reflection.
Have you ever done a year in review thinking back on big events and favorite moments? Most years, it’s enjoyable and memorable. Even in really tough years, you’re likely to tap into some beautiful memories.
Here are two pre-writing activities that may help you remember the most meaningful, memorable or fun moments:
Use Your Photos
Sometimes the things that happened way back in January slip out of our minds by the end of the year. Consider scrolling through pictures from the past year. Try not to get too bogged down in this, especially if you take a lot of pictures. Simply let the images trigger memories.
Scroll Through Your Calendar
I also love looking through my calendar**, week by week, and seeing what I did. Again, just scrolling through can bring forth memories or help you see patterns.
With your memories primed by images or your calendar, you may want to ponder some questions like:
- What were some of my favorite memories from the past year?
- What did I learn this year?
- How have I changed this year?
- What activities brought me meaning or fun or connection?
- What was the hardest thing I accomplished this year?
- What am I proud of this year?
- If I had to sum up my year in one word, it would be ___.
- What do I want more of in the new year?
For each question can you identify why certain events were memorable or fun? Why they made you proud or why you changed? Write down your thoughts.
If your reflection helps you create a list of goals and dreams for the new year, find a way to capture that in writing, so that your writing can act as a reminder of what you really want for yourself in 2019.
I wish you a happy holiday season. AND, here’s to a wonderful 2019.
Best,
Melanie
** After doing this exercise for several years, I started a habit of writing down 3 things each night that I am grateful for or proud of or friends I connected with or things I accomplished…basically I attempt to capture the meaningful, fun and enjoyable moments both small and big on a daily basis. Try it in 2019, it’s super fun and powerful.
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