Looking Back and Planning Ahead

This is it, the final Walmsley blog of 2023.

Oftentimes the end of the year can evoke a number of different emotions. Feelings of   excitement for the new year to come, wistfulness while you reflect on the last 12 months, and fear of what lies ahead are all common this time of year. Whatever the case is for you, it can be helpful to sit down, sort through your thoughts and feelings, and decide how they pertain to the new year. Approaching this process with balance and intention can be a spirit booster if you lean into recognizing the challenges that you have faced and focus on your potential for growth in the year to come.

With the year drawing to a close, some people may feel excitement for future plans; bright outlooks for changes coming ahead, whether it is a future move, an upcoming course, or the possibilities of a major purchase or trip you have been saving up for. These are great feelings to begin the new year with.
With reflection can come some difficult feelings too, as the past year has been quite a rollercoaster for many people. Paying attention to the news has meant being faced with sadness, frustration, anxiety and anger, both at home and abroad. Acknowledging these emotions is important, and is the first step in processing them. It can also be helpful to take stock of the progress you’ve made in the last 12 months. It doesn’t matter the size of any particular accomplishment; reminding ourselves that we did something positive can help balance that human tendency to overplay the negative. By balancing accomplishments and setbacks, we can begin to see the full picture of what our year was like, what we learned, and how we wish to move forward into the new year. 

During this time of reflection, focus on ways you’ve grown and improved over the past year. What choices did you make that you wouldn’t have before? How do you feel you’ve changed for the better, and what lessons did you learn that you can apply to your life in 2024? It can help to do some journalling about growth and change, committing your ideas to paper can make them feel more concrete.

However you decide to ring in 2024, remember that Walmsley EFAP has counsellors to support you with whatever it is you’re dealing with in your life. Perhaps a goal for 2024 will be to reach out to us for the very first time. Call us, fill out an online form, or chat with us on our website, and we will connect you with a counsellor.

Wishing you a prosperous 2024,

Rob Baker MA RCC
Walmsley EFAP