When we take time to pause and reflect, we make time for growth and transformation. It might not appear as simple as that, especially during chaotic and complex times; however, it is worth trying.

Why? Because change starts within. Because transformation can only come when we are self-aware and in control of our decisions. And when we are in control of our decisions, shaping them based on self-reflection and gained experience, we become the primary beneficiaries of these decisions. A simple equation with an exponential outcome – it is us for the benefit of ourselves – in an authentic and responsible way, with positive ripple effects in the communities and environments we operate in.

Every single moment, we make decisions – what to do, what not to do, by default or intentionally. Self-reflection is hitting the pause button – taking a moment to look back but also to look forward – before going back to life. And in this process, there is wisdom you can find … to try something new, to take a bold step, to confirm a decision, a strategy or a next step, to celebrate a win, to get energized for what’s ahead …

So this is an invitation to make 2025 a year when self-reflection is part of your priorities. Be it daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly – whatever the frequency and duration you find suitable for your life – give yourself this gift of self-reflection and you will be amazed what will come out of it!

Halfway through the first quarter of 2025, it is very apparent to me that self-reflection is a critical ingredient for how I want to define success in 2025 both on a personal and professional level. And from these few moments of self-reflection to date, there are insights that I know will serve me well through the rest of the year:

• Accumulation of wealth – be it time, energy, financial, relationships, energy – is as much about additions, as it is about eliminations and subtractions.
  • When your inbox or calendar are clogged, unsubscribe from everything you end up not reading and not consuming. Delete calendar reminders that you no longer read and uncommit from activities you no longer have the energy for. That empty space or clean slate will energize you for a new way to spend your time, more aligned with where you are today in your growth journey.
  • The cost of having too many goals is procrastination, frustration and depleted energy. Decide which goals, areas of life or areas of improvement are your top priority for this time in your life and go for it – be it one or two or three, recognizing time, energy and resources are scarce.
  • We all thrive when the sense of belonging is strong – be it in our families, communities, work environments, … However, the quality of our relationships is more important than volume. Letting yourself guided by this principle can spare you pain, disappointments or frustration.

• Everything has an ending whether we anticipate it or not, whether we like it or not, whether we can control it or not.…
  • If I remind myself of the fact that my kids will go to college and leave the house in the next decade, I am more likely to cherish the moment even in the midst of tiring or challenging times. When you think about a relationship ending or someone not being part of your life be it at home or at work, you would want to do and be your best today to bring that relationship to its full potential. Appreciate the people and things that are in your life today.
  • And when you can’t stop or control what is happening, when sudden and involuntary changes and endings are happening, cling to love (in its purest essence love for humanity, others, nature, life) and some action you can control to weather the storm. If an ending causes hurt or grief, put the life vest on to stay focused on surviving: getting the sleep you need, making a phone call to reach out… The less alone we are in our suffering – be it with family or friends, or at a professional support level – the faster we can process it. The end of something can be the beginning of something else.

As Carl Jung said: “your vision will become clear only when you look into your heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens.”

Enjoy the gift of self-reflection and be transformed by it!