As the year ends, it can be tempting to begin planning for the new year. A fresh start is appealing for many reasons—it can provide a burst of energy and enthusiasm during the depths of winter and prompt the forming of new healthy habits. Before getting caught up in New Year’s resolutions and goals, try to take some time to reflect on the months that have passed. The end of the year is a great time to pause and consider the things you’ve learned and the growth you’ve experienced. If you’re grieving a loved one, thinking deeply about their life and legacy can be particularly healing at this time. Our funeral home staff encourages the families we serve to celebrate their loved ones throughout the year, especially during the holiday season.

 

Here are some helpful tips for a year-end reflection:

 

Focus on what went well.

Even if you’ve had a tough year, try to pay attention to the successes you’ve experienced. Perhaps a friend showed up for you when you needed support or maybe you helped a loved one during a challenging time. Celebrating the ways you’ve grown and what you’ve accomplished can help you feel more confident heading into the new year.

 

Don’t brush over the difficulties.

If a loved one has died, reflecting on taxing months and weeks may be the last thing you want to do. However, remembering painful events can provide perspective and more understanding around them. Noticing how far you’ve come in your healing or how others have supported you in your grief can give you the motivation to continue to grow in your relationships with others and yourself.

 

Start journaling.

Keeping a journal is a simple self-care practice that requires only a notebook, a pen or a pencil, and a few minutes every day or once a week. Once they are written down, thoughts and feelings can act as signposts of the events of the past several months. If you’re missing a loved one who has died, writing down your experience of grief—how you’re feeling on a day-to-day basis—can help you process difficult emotions.

 

Give meditation and mindfulness a try.

The stress-reducing effects of meditation have been well documented through various scientific studies in recent years. Whether you practice simple breathwork, visualization techniques, or mantra meditation, the benefits of slowing down can be profound. You may feel more at peace and experience more clarity when it comes to your thoughts and less reactivity around your emotions.

 

No matter how you choose to slow down and reflect on your year, the benefits can boost your mental health and overall outlook on life. To access grief support resources, contact our compassionate staff.