It's hard to believe we're already halfway through January – time truly has a way of racing by, even during this slower-paced season.
For me, December or January is the perfect time to pause and reflect on the past year, both individually and as a family.
Including my kids and partner in these reflections not only brings us closer but also provides a positive space for open communication about our thoughts and feelings.
As a family coach, I believe in the power of recognising and celebrating wins, no matter how big or small.
Just as I start coaching sessions by asking about three wins for the week, I find it crucial to acknowledge the positive moments that often go unnoticed in our daily lives. This helps counteract our natural tendency to focus on the negative, a primal instinct that once served us well but can hinder our well-being today.
To kickstart these reflective conversations, here are some questions you can ask your family:
What is one word we would use to describe our family last year?
What were the most memorable moments we had last year?
In our family, what are we most grateful for?
What is one thing we learned about ourselves or someone in our family?
Once you've taken the time to reflect, it's important to leverage those insights to set intentions or focuses for the new year.
Instead of overwhelming yourself with unrealistic goals, consider taking a more gentle approach:
Choose a word or two that will be your focus for the year – FUN, LOVE, TIME, SUNSHINE, JOY, ADVENTURE are some great examples
Decorate a jar or container with your chosen word/s
Have everyone in the family contribute ideas on pieces of paper to bring your focus to life
Aim for 12 ideas, ranging from extravagant to simple – think picnics, sleepovers in the lounge, $20 outings, nature days, or cozy hugs on the couch while watching Bluey
Draw one idea out of the jar each month and make a commitment to follow through. Consider scheduling it in your calendar to ensure it happens, especially if your family life is bustling
May this New Year reflection and intention-setting process bring you and your loved ones closer together, fostering joy and creating memorable moments throughout the year. Here’s to a year filled with growth, connection, and the beauty of shared experiences!
Empowering yours,
Laura
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