Psychology professors Baumeister, Vohs, and Oettingen, in their study on Pragmatic Prospection write:
“In the present, the past is more knowable than the future—but people think far more about the future than the past. Both facts derive from the principle that the future can be changed whereas the past cannot.”
Perhaps this is why, as a new year approaches, all of us focus on making new year resolutions rather than reflecting on our previous year. We seem more inclined to look ahead than to look back.
Now, you might think I am crazy because everyone keeps telling you to focus on the future than the past.
The thing is, pragmatic prospection is a cognitive process where we imagine what we want to happen and think about the potential obstacles in our way. Then, we plan and outline steps to achieve our goals. Simple, right?
The problem is, that if we rush into planning our future without taking time to think about the past, we are missing a big chance to learn and grow. In order to make good decisions for the future, it is important to understand and process our previous thoughts and feelings.
So, by that, I mean, prospection comes after introspection.
Introspection is looking inside yourself to understand your thoughts and feelings. Just taking a moment to reflect on your experiences.
A great way to do this, especially at the end of the year, is to find a quiet place, relax with a warm drink and some calming music, and write down your thoughts and feelings. Ask yourself questions about what you have learned and then, what you hope to achieve.
The idea is as simple as preparing for the future by first understanding our past. With that, here are 13 questions you should ask yourself before the new year:
#1 What were my three accomplishments this year that make me proud?
Start by reflecting on what you have accomplished in the previous year. It doesn’t have to be something very big. It doesn’t have to be something very big. I know how easy it is to get caught up in the pursuit of big, life-changing goals. But often, it is the small victories that truly fuel our motivation and help us keep going forward.
Personally, my three biggest accomplishments this year that I am proud of are:
- Starting this blog to express myself
- Earning my Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies
- Moving to a new country and surviving when I thought I wouldn’t
#2 What were my biggest failures or setbacks this year?
I am a fan of the idea that our failure shapes us into who we are. However, most of us often perceive that failure gets more public attention. We try to avoid it at all costs. We doubt ourselves and shy away from unconventional ideas, just because we might—fail. In reality, every big achievement is preceded by failure. Whether it is a single, but big setback or a series of smaller disappointments, like Edison’s 10,000 attempts to invent the light bulb. On which, he said:
The biggest lesson I have learned this year is that life is full of opportunities. If one door closes, another always opens. Believe in yourself as you work hard and stay committed to your goals. The more you try, the clearer your path will become.
#3 Who were my top three friends this year?
If you ask me, I’d say life’s greatest joy comes from the connections we build with others. Whether it is in the form of family, friends, or a supportive colleague, these relationships make our lives better in countless ways.
As we grow, we might even lose some connections. But the core of our human experience lies in the love, support, and laughter we share with those around us.
Take a moment to reflect on the three people who have made an impact in your life this year. Reach out to these individuals and let them know you love them. A simple phone call or a message can make a world of difference. Tell them how much you appreciate their presence in your life. Now!
#4 What is that one negative belief I’m currently holding onto that’s hindering my progress?
We can’t truly experience positive change if we’re constantly burdened by self-sabotaging thoughts and behaviors. Self-care involves identifying these harmful patterns and letting them go. By releasing what no longer serves us, we create space for growth and positive experiences.
Oftentimes, we are our own biggest obstacle. We cling to negative thought patterns that come in the way of our progress. Such as:
- Fear of failure. “I want to start a business, but I’m afraid it will fail.” This fear can paralyze us and prevent us from taking the necessary steps to turn our dreams into reality.
- Lack of direction. “I am ready for a career change, but I do not know where to start.” This uncertainty can lead to procrastination and inaction.
- Fear of rejection. “I like this person very much, but what if they say no?” This fear can create unnecessary barriers in our relationships and can prevent us from experiencing love.
To overcome these self-imposed limitations, define them, challenge them, and replace them with positive beliefs and thoughts. With hope, you can live a more fulfilling life.
#5 What’s one area where I made real progress this year?
We often gravitate towards negativity, which is why, we might not acknowledge our success. Take time to reflect on your progress this year. What was that one particular area that you absolutely smashed this year? It can be your career, spiritual journey, love life, fitness, health, or literally anything.
I personally made a great habit of waking up early in the morning. I’ve been a night owl my whole life and I wanted to change it for so long. This year, through habit tracking, I made changes to my routine and started waking up early. It has made a great impact on my motivation and energy levels throughout the day.
