Weekly Wins 53: Kickstart Your Holiday Reflection: Simple Steps for Busy Parents

As the end of the year approaches, life can feel like a whirlwind of holiday to-dos, gatherings, and events. But December can also be an ideal time to reflect on the past year and get ready for what’s next.

Wrapping up a year in a reflection doesn’t have to be this laborious and hard exercise, nor does it have to take a long time to do it. A simple year-end reflection allows us to wrap up 2024 on a thoughtful note, which is especially valuable for those of us juggling busy schedules and caring for neurodiverse children.

Why Take Time to Reflect?

Reflecting offers a chance to process everything that’s happened—both the highs and the challenges—and helps us better understand how we spent our time, our goals, growth, and values. For many parents, the year may feel like a blur. By taking just a few minutes to reflect, you can identify what you want to bring into 2025 and what you’re ready to leave behind.

Simple Steps to Start Reflecting

1. Celebrate the Wins:

No matter how big or small, take note of your accomplishments this year. Did you establish a positive routine, navigate a challenging family transition, or find a moment for self-care? Did your child achieve a new level of self care? Did you get away for a family holiday? All of these wins deserve recognition.

2. Note the Challenges:

Reflecting on challenges isn’t about dwelling on what went wrong; it’s about learning. Think about what made certain moments difficult and how you’ve grown from them. These lessons can inform your goals for next year.

3. Define Your Intentions for 2025:

Is there a theme, value, or goal you want to bring into the new year? Consider choosing a word or phrase that captures your hopes, like “balance,” “connection,” or “growth.”

As the year comes to a close, take this time to reflect and set intentions at your own pace. If you’d like extra guidance or support, consider joining My Village or Oasis, where you’ll find resources and community to help you make 2025 a meaningful year.