It’s time to pause and reflect

Do you ever take time to pause and reflect each month??

As a busy mum, this might feel like another task that should be on your to-do list, but I think this one is very important, and it doesn't have to take long either. I am a mum of 2, and I notice the impact when I don’t prioritise the time to pause and reflect.?

When you are new to this kind of thing, it can feel a little overwhelming to make time for. So I want to help you get started.

Here are some reflective questions that may help you reflect on your month. You could even adapt these for whatever period of time you want to review. Pick and choose what works for you.

• What went well for me this month?
• What didn’t go so well for me this month?
• What lessons did I learn this month?
• How could I have spent my time better?
• What are 3 things I’m grateful for this month?
• What habits did I try to develop or continue working on?
• What was your key learning this month??
• What was the highlight of this month?

It is also helpful to look forward, as well as back. And here are some more reflective questions that might help you. Again, feel free to adapt them to suit the period of time you want to focus on.?

• What is your main focus for next month?
• What would I like to achieve next month?
• How can I improve for next month?
• What is my action plan for working on my habits?
• How can I take time for myself each day next month?

Now you have some helpful prompts, pick your favourite one, and let me share some ideas of when you could try these out:

• Before everyone wakes up
• While doing night feeds?
• While brushing your teeth
• In the shower
• On your commute to work?
• 5 minutes before you start your work
• On your well-deserved lunch break
• Before you go to bed

You do not need to write anything down if you don’t want to, just thinking through your answer or saying it out loud (in a safe space, of course) is a good start. It may be all jumbled up to begin with, but with practice and time, you will find your groove and understand what works for you.?

I like to pause and reflect on my walks, as I get so much clarity and there are no distractions. I also notice the impact this has on me when I don’t prioritise this too. As a busy mum, I think habit stacking is a great way to make time for what is important. I love to walk, so pairing that with thinking time works well for me.

There is a saying that what gets measured, gets managed. So be intentional about what you focus on.?

I hope this helps you. Enjoy your reflection time, and let me know how you get on with it, and what you noticed.?