The simplest way to kickstart 2021
Photo by David van Dijk on Unsplash
It’s that time of year again. Time to look back, to reflect on the year that was, and reset ourselves for the new year. Let’s face it, in reality not much changes between December 31st and January 1st. It’s an artificial reason to stop, think and reset – but it’s usually one that works.
I like to think of myself as someone who’s worked hard to develop an effective system and cadence for reflective practice – it's pretty important in my line of work. One of my favourite examples is that for the last few years, I’ve devoted a full day in January to meeting with one of my mentors, who, coincidentally is also a coach. We’ve built and refined a standing agenda for the day that includes pre-work, deep reflection on the prior year along with setting our respective visions, strategies and plans for the year ahead. I’ve always looked forward to it and it has given me strong momentum heading into each new calendar year.
This year is different. My usual reflective habits are being tested. And many of my clients are reporting the same feeling. I think it’s because, at some point, the relationship between how much we’re challenged and our desire to reflect becomes inverse – the harder our experience, the less likely we are to want to reflect on it. 2020 is a classic example of that – the year was so tough relative to previous years that many of us just don’t have the energy to do our usual reflection.
I’m hearing things like…”I know it’s good for me. I know I’ll feel better when it’s done – but my usual way of reflecting and planning feels like pushing a cement truck up Mount Everest”.
Rather than giving up, I've been wondering about a different method. One where we simplify things. Instead of the usual, comprehensive review and planning process, what if we take a pared-back, practical approach?
Try asking yourself, “What would a Minimum Viable Reflection look like?”
In other words, what is the simplest, quickest or most focused activity that will give you what you need to create momentum for 2021?
Your MVR activity could be one of these…
My most important learning from 2020 was…<reflection>
At the end of 2021, I want to feel…<vision>
I will define success in 2021 by…<vision>
I will apply my best ‘2020 coping strategy’ to 2021 by…<action>
If I achieve nothing else in 2021, I want to <action>
Or perhaps you’ve already found an MVR that helped you kickstart your year. If you have, I’d love to hear about it! And if you’d to know more about the other reflective practices I use, send me an email. I’d be happy to share them with you.