How and when do you reflect?

What does it mean, to reflect?

Often we reflect on situations that haven’t gone well. What could we have done differently? Usually the more difficult they were, the more impact there was, the more we reflect.

We may occasionally reflect on a situation that has gone brilliantly well, or one that was a memorable, amazing experience.

Reflecting on the extremes, seems to be the norm. But what about reflecting day to day, on the normal, the middle ground? What value lies there? It’s not something we all pay attention to.

Why not?

Noticing whether you’re feeling relaxed, playful, weary at a point in the day can be useful. Noticing you were less involved than normal in that meeting. Being curious about why you sensed a little stomach churn just before that phone call. Notice how busy your mind is. Notice patterns of thought. Notice words and phrases you use regularly. Words you say to others, but also words you say to yourself in your head. Notice how you’re distracted. Notice what’s distracting you. Notice familiar patterns of thought, of behaviour. Notice when you hold back, stay quiet. Notice when you don’t.

Reflecting on how we are, in the moment, can be useful. What our body and mind is doing, is telling us, should be heard. This is information. It’s free. It’s insightful. It’s valuable.

Let’s pay more attention to reflecting.