December & Reflections
The temperature is dropping, and Christmas lights are officially beginning to brighten the streets. It’s December – the heart of the holiday season- a time filled with gatherings, travel, and endless planning. Amid the hustle and bustle, there’s an opportunity for something quieter yet deeply meaningful: reflection.
Reflection is powerful.
Reflection allows for self-connection to occur on a deep level. It helps us recognize patterns, process emotions, and explore our vulnerabilities, allowing different parts of ourselves to emerge. This introspection can take many forms: a quiet moment of journaling, a deep conversation with a therapist, silent meditation, or even sharing openly on social media or with loved ones.
Reflection is difficult.
It can feel overwhelming, especially if we are carrying past traumas or navigating challenges in the present. Your inner critic may speak louder during this reflective period and struggle to allow softness. Your body may instinctively stay in defense mode, focused on survival. Societal pressures, comparisons, and frustrations can also make it harder to pause and reflect with compassion.
As we approach the end of 2024 many people will share what they have accomplished in the year, reminisce about milestones or exciting memories, and discuss visions of what they hope 2025 to be. Social media will become an avenue where these thoughts are displayed for others to view, praise and share excitement. Gatherings with friends, family and colleagues may prompt conversation where reflection and goal setting are encouraged.
This is wonderful, amazing and absolutely okay. I want to share joy and reflection with you! But I also want you to know that:
It is okay if the only thing you did this year was survive.
It is okay if the only thing you did this year was get through it.
If your 2024 was trying and all you could do was exist, then this may be a good time to just take care of yourself.
This can look like:
Taking a break from social media. In a world that is always plugged in, it can be very hard to remind ourselves that our journey is our own, it looks different, it has its own timeline, and it only needs to make sense to us. Step away for a bit. Put down the comparisons. Drown out the noise of others. Reconnect with you.
Hand to heart. When we are experiencing trauma, or enduring difficult times it can often result in a disconnect with self. When you notice discomfort surfacing, it is important to notice the emotional and physical reaction and respond with curiosity and kindness. This allows us to build a trusting relationship with ourselves where we can choose to soften, and care for self in a loving manner.
Engaging in curiosity and kindness can feel challenging, especially during tough times. One way to reconnect with yourself is by placing your hand over your heart and speaking out loud one of the affirmations listed below. Pause between each phrase to notice how it feels. Repeat the phrase as many times as you need or adapt them to fit your needs.
“I’m so sorry that you have endured so much.”
“This is hard. We will get through this together.”
“You did not deserve this.”
“You have done the best you can do given the circumstances, resources and support available.”
“You are allowed to be here.”
“You are enough as you are.”
Find simple joys. I frequently utilize this phrasing in session. When we are in periods of crisis, despair, or helplessness it is difficult to engage in some of the bigger, traditional coping skills.
So, don’t.
When we slow down and intentionally look at our life, we may find that some of the greatest and simple joys are that first cup of coffee in the morning, a 32 oz. Diet Coke, a morning snuggle with your pet, a shower in total silence, etc. Make it simple, make it small, make it accessible and most importantly, make it feel good to YOU.
Whether this season of reflection brings triumph or struggle, know that support is always available. Be Counseling is here to provide a safe and supportive space for your journey. If you’re ready to reflect and heal, reach out – I’d love to walk this path with you.
