Why You Need to Document Your Year in Review

As the year draws to a close, many of us find ourselves swept up in the holiday rush and preparations for the new year. However, December is also the perfect time to pause and reflect. Personally, I dedicate this month to documenting my year in review. This practice allows me to take stock of the journey, appreciate the milestones, acknowledge challenges, and distill lessons to carry forward into the next year.

Socrates once said that the unexamined life is not worth living. Reflection brings clarity and perspective. Often, we’re too focused on what’s still ahead to realize how far we’ve already come. Writing down the highlights and struggles of the past year can be eye-opening. What might feel like an uneventful year can suddenly transform into a story of progress, resilience, and growth when you start listing everything out.

In my yearly review, I focus on five key areas that capture the essence of my life and growth. Relationships form the foundation of a fulfilling life. I start by reflecting on my relationship with God, myself, my spouse, children, parents, family, colleagues, friends, and even strangers. Have I been present, supportive, and kind? Have I made a positive impact in the lives of others? This exercise helps me identify areas where I can nurture deeper connections and be a better influence in the coming year.

Next, I evaluate my professional life. I ask myself: Where am I on my career path? Am I adding value in my current role? I review my performance over the year, identify areas for growth, and explore opportunities for new projects or roles that could enhance my skills and experiences. Proactively planning for potential career moves ensures I’m prepared to seize opportunities as they arise.

Financial health is a crucial part of my review. I assess how well I’ve managed my money: How much did I save? How much did I invest? Has my net worth grown? Did I meet my financial goals for the year? This process also includes reviewing ongoing projects and planning financial objectives for the year ahead. By understanding where I stand, I can chart a clearer path toward greater financial security.

Good health is the bedrock of everything else. I review my fitness goals, diet, sleep patterns, and mental well-being. For instance, I take an online mental health check annually to gauge my emotional state. Over the years, small lifestyle changes—like cutting out bread and sugar—have made a significant difference. I use this time to think about new habits or routines I can adopt to maintain and improve my health.

Finally, I look at my personal growth. This includes taking stock of new knowledge I’ve gained through books, podcasts, or courses. I set learning goals for the coming year and explore curiosities or interests I’d like to dive deeper into. Personal development isn’t just about professional skills; it’s about enriching your life with new experiences and perspectives.

Documenting your year in review doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Think of it as writing a story about yourself—a story that acknowledges both the victories and the challenges. This process not only helps you appreciate the journey but also prepares you for a more intentional and fulfilling year ahead. So, grab a notebook, your favorite pen, or even just your phone, and start reflecting. You might be surprised at the remarkable year you’ve had.