Like any new beginning, time briefly takes on a different quality in January – we may look back, and particularly ahead, with a different perspective.
This can be motivating, but a sense of a need for change or action can also up the volume on the “shoulds” in our work life.
We may feel the pressure of the new start, and think:
“I really should have done X, Y or Z by now”
“Should I do this or that this year?”
“I really should do that thing…”
And be moved into action by a sense of obligation and fear, rather than what we really want.
So with this in mind, this reflection exercise supports you to surface and explore what “shoulds” are cropping up for you at this unique time of year and consider what impact these are having by taking some different perspectives for contrast.
To start
- This reflection exercise shares some questions for you to respond to – would you prefer to think, write or type your responses?
- Take a moment to pause here and sit back, checking on what tension and ease you feel in your body in this moment
- As you notice more, respond to what your body might need in this moment – perhaps warmth, water, movement, etc.
You today…
- As you land in January, what would you say your body is saying?
- What does January feel like to you this year? Can you sum this up in 3 words?
- How are you feeling about the year ahead as we start out?
Where you want to be…
Complete the following sentences one at time noting down what comes up first, focussing on work life:
- At this point in the year I should…
- At this point in my career I should…
- This year I should…
- I really should do more…
- I should stop…
- What do you notice as you complete the should sentences?
- As you pause here, what stands out to you?
Exploring possibilities…
One again, have a go at completing the following sentences one at time, focussing on work life:
- At this point in the year I could…
- At this point in my career I could…
- This year I could…
- I could do more…
- I could stop…
- What do you notice as you complete these could sentences?
- What possibilities do the coulds make clearer for you?
Exploring desires…
- At this point in the year I would really like to…
- At this point in my career I would really like to…
- This year I would really like to…
- I would really like to do more…
- I would really like to stop…
- What do you notice as you complete these would like to sentences?
- What feels important about what’s come up?
Taking stock
- Take a moment to pause here checking in what you need – whether that’s movement, warmth or comfort break
- As you reflect here:
- What stands out to you about your reflections?
- What’s the most important thing that emerged?
- What has this reflection opened up for you?
- What would you like to take particular note of, or take with you?
- How would you sum up the impact reflecting on shoulds, coulds, and likes has had?
To close
- Check in with yourself – take a moment to notice where in your body feels warm, breathing into this place if that appeals
- Reflection can bring up useful, moving and interesting things – whatever has come up for you, what do you fancy doing now?
I hope you’ve found this reflection helpful and wishing you well for the year ahead.
