Rearview Mirror

The end of the year is commonly a time of reflection.

It should not be the only time for reflection, however.

A year is long. A lot happens in a year. A lot is forgotten in a year.

Reflection should be a daily task.

Observe … understand … evaluate … learn … apply. And then repeat.

When on the road, we regularly cast glances into the rearview mirror. We don’t drive for hours and then check the rearview mirror expecting to see every mile we've covered. Bends and turns would obstruct our view. Things are too small to be seen in detail when they are far away.

So too, it is when we reflect on the past year. Some things remain prominent while others fade into the distance.

Thus, reflection must be a constant process, not a singular event.

That being said, I wanted to share a few reflective questions that have been on my mind as of late. These questions are, of course, somewhat tailored to me, but I thought you might enjoy having them bounce around in your head, as well, or they might inspire you to write some questions of your own.

So, without further ado, over the past year...

• What were the most valuable ways in which I spent my time?

• What were my most significant time wasters?

• Which people had the most positive impact on my life?

• Which thoughts and actions brought me the most joy?

• What did my actions reveal about my convictions?

• What is an area of life in which I experienced growth?

• In which instances did my actions most veer from my intentions?

• What new ideas was I introduced to or did I conceive of that impacted my daily life?

• Which facets are new to my faith?

And finally, once I have answered all these questions…

• What is my takeaway from the answer I have penned beneath each of these, and how can I apply these considerations as I move forward into the next year?

There is value in removing your foot from the gas pedal and looking into the rearview mirror from time to time.

Take a moment to reflect.