12 Questions for the New Year
As we enter each new year, many of us find ourselves contemplating the tradition of setting New Year's resolutions. Yet, for those who have grown weary of the cycle of enthusiastic starts and gradual fades, and for those who resist the pressure of unrealistic expectations, there's an alternative approach worth exploring. Instead of making resolutions, consider posing 12 reflective questions/statements that invite a thoughtful examination of the past year and pave the way for intentional living in the coming year. I have done this exercise every year for the past 5 years, and it has been a valuable tool in my life. These questions offer a chance to cultivate a more profound and mindful connection with your experiences and aspirations. So, if the notion of resolutions feels daunting or ineffective, these questions can serve as a meaningful guide for embarking on the journey of self-discovery and growth in the coming year.
The 12 Questions
What things have been accomplishments, positives or lit up my life in the past year? These can be large and small, business and personal, outer or inner.
What things have been challenges, disappointments or felt difficult in the past year?
What are the 3 most valuable lessons I learned in the past year that will make a difference for me in the next year?
What are 3 things that illustrate progress I made in the past year? This question becomes even more relevant as you do this activity year after year. You can then look at questions #8, #9 and #11 for the past year and see how you have embodied what you set forth.
What are the top 5 things I am fulfilled by accomplishing in the past year? Look back at questions #1 and #2 to answer this question. This really narrows down what is important to you and what has made a difference. You will often find the things you are most fulfilled by are tied to challenges you have overcome.
What was the theme of the past year? This will often reframe a challenging year and give meaning to what has already transpired.
Who, what, where are a must for my happiness, joy or fulfillment in the coming year?
I allow myself in the coming year to be…. This can be one simple statement or a series of things. After you write these, they can be stated as “I AM….”
In the coming year I am letting go of… This can be one simple statement or a series of things.
What dates do I need to plan in the coming year? This can be vacations, time with family and friends, doctor visits, classes, self-care, etc.
In this year and beyond, what are my 3 biggest goals, dreams and aspirations? I often list one professional, one personal and one inner goal. As an added level, under each one list WHY it’s important to you, and 3 tangible ACTIONS you can take in the next year towards that goal. Because these are directional and longer term, there isn’t the pressure of hitting the goals immediately, but rather the reminder to keep taking steps towards them.
What is the theme of the year to come? This can set the tone and be a great guiding phrase for life in the next year.
If this list feels too big, just start with a few. Take your time. It is meant to be a tool for understanding the self. It can be a good exercise to do on birthdays as well. Remember that this exercise is not about rigid goals or unwavering commitments. It's a way to flow with your own narrative and really listen to your heart and mind, and discover that growth often comes in small, mindful steps. Check in with this list periodically throughout the coming year. You will find that it can be a good reminder of what you have accomplished, what you have overcome, who and what you need to surround yourself with, how you want to evolve, and where you are headed. I am often amazed by what I have actually accomplished and unfolded in my life as I redo the questions for a new year, even if I have forgotten to look at what I’ve written for a while.
As the next year unfolds, may these questions guide you with grace and intentionality. Let them be the compass that navigates you through a year where self-discovery, understanding, and authenticity take center stage, allowing you to live a more conscious and purposeful life.
