Reflecting, Creating and Designing for 2026!
“Clarity comes when we pause long enough to listen.”
Unknown
As we enter a new year, it’s natural to feel energized by fresh possibilities and new beginnings. While I value that sense of momentum, I also believe there’s great wisdom in pausing before rushing ahead.
Before diving into what you want to accomplish in the coming year, it can be incredibly valuable to reflect on the year that’s just passed.
I recently read an article in The New York Times “Well” section that prompted me to do just that—to reflect before creating and designing my year ahead.
You’ll notice I use the words creating and designing. I intentionally move away from the idea of resolutions, because that language doesn’t tap into the deeper, more intentional part of us that is capable of meaningful, sustainable change.
The article focused on a series of reflective questions—questions that can help you assess the past year while also setting the emotional and mental tone for the year ahead. These reflections can support your overall well-being—mind, body, and spirit.
You don’t need to answer every question. Simply choose one, two, or three that feel most relevant to you right now.
When did you feel the most joyful and carefree?
Reflecting on moments of genuine joy can offer valuable insight into how—and with whom—you want to spend more of your time.
What gave you energy, and what drained it?
This question can be especially revealing. It highlights where you may want to invest more energy—and where healthier boundaries might be needed.
What seemed impossible, but you did it anyway?
Looking back on challenges you overcame reminds you of your strength and resilience. This builds confidence and trust in your ability to handle what lies ahead.
What habit, if practiced more consistently, would positively affect your life?
Instead of focusing only on brand-new habits, consider what already worked—even inconsistently—and how you might build on that this year.
What did you try to control that was actually outside your control?
This one often brings relief. We can’t control traffic, weather, or other people’s reactions—but we can choose how we respond. Letting go of what’s out of our control can significantly lighten our mental load.
Is there anyone you need to forgive in 2026?
Forgiveness isn’t about condoning behavior—it’s about freeing yourself from carrying anger, resentment, or emotional weight that no longer serves you.
These are simply invitations to reflect. Choose what feels meaningful and allow yourself to explore it gently.
Choosing a Word of the Year
Another practice I love is selecting a Word of the Year.
Your word becomes an anchor—an energy to align with and a guide for noticing when something feels out of alignment. It’s not about perfection; it’s about awareness and gentle course correction.
My word for 2026 is connection. I want to deepen my connections—with friends, family, community, clients, and just as importantly, with myself. When I’m connected inwardly, it naturally supports deeper, more meaningful connections outwardly as well.
If you’d like inspiration, here are some words to consider:
Inspired
Love
Kindness
Calm
Connection
Growth
Authenticity
Courage
Balance
Health
Focus
Abundance
Prosperity
Thriving
Trust
Surrender
Creative
Empowerment
So… what will your Word of the Year be?
Turning Reflection into Real-Life Change
As you reflect on the questions in this blogpost, you may be noticing a mix of clarity and frustration.
Perhaps you’re clearer about what drained you last year…
or what brought you joy…
or the habits you’d like to strengthen.
And yet, everyday life still feels busy, demanding, and stressful—making it hard to follow through on the changes you want to make.
This is where support can make a real difference.
Through one-on-one hypnotherapy and mind-coaching sessions, I help clients:
- manage daily stress and mental overwhelm
- stop carrying what’s outside their control
- feel calmer, more focused, and emotionally steady
- build habits that actually fit into real life
- create more space for ease, joy, and balance
If you’re ready to move from reflection into meaningful, sustainable change, I invite you to schedule a complimentary Clarity Call.
It’s a relaxed conversation where we’ll talk about what you’re navigating right now—and explore how I can support you in feeling more grounded, clear, and aligned as you move forward.
? Connect with me to Schedule your Clarity Call by any of the 3 ways below.
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