Why Reflection is the First Step to Growth

As we step into 2025 with a new vision and fresh goals, it’s important to recognize that meaningful growth doesn’t happen by chance. It begins with reflection. 

I know what you’re thinking:  Ashley, why does this even matter?! 

Well, in order to know where you’re going, you have to know where you’ve been.  Our personal history is the best predictor of our future.  Taking the time to pause, look back, and evaluate where you’ve been is one of the most powerful tools for intentional transformation.

The Power of Reflection

Reflection allows us to:

• Gain Clarity: By looking at past experiences, we identify patterns, successes, and areas for improvement.

• Cultivate Gratitude: Acknowledging wins and moments of joy fosters a sense of appreciation.

• Refocus Priorities: Reviewing what matters most helps realign actions with values and goals.

Renowned psychologist Dr. Donald Schon refers to this process as “reflective practice,” emphasizing its role in fostering learning and personal development. Schon’s work (“The Reflective Practitioner”) underscores the idea that reflection transforms experience into insight.

Why Reflection Fuels Growth

Growth thrives on intentionality. According to a study published in the Harvard Business Review (2014), employees who spent 15 minutes at the end of their workday reflecting on lessons learned performed 23% better after 10 days than those who didn’t.  I only had one thought after reading that…SIGN ME UP! I’m sure you’d feel the same way if it meant improving in every area of your life because when we take time to reflect, we position ourselves to act with purpose and confidence.

Making Reflection Easy

My least favorite thing is when someone tells you to do something but doesn’t provide the tools to make it happen. Don’t worry—I won’t leave you hanging. Here are some simple steps to help you start your reflection journey.

Steps to Effective Reflection

1. Create Space: Dedicate uninterrupted time for reflection. This might be journaling in the morning or taking a quiet walk in the evening.

2. Ask Questions: Use prompts like:

   • What were my biggest wins this year?

   • What challenges taught me the most?

   • What do I want to leave behind?

3. Document Your Thoughts: Writing helps organize and solidify insights. Consider tools like the Five Minute Journal (which is my ABSOLUTE favorite!) or apps like Day One for structured reflection.  You can even just do this in your notes app…Keep It Simple & Stress-free!

4. Set Intentions: Use your reflections to inform actionable goals.

   
   

Resources for Deeper Reflection

• Books:

  • "The Art of Reflective Thinking" by Donald Schon

  • "Atomic Habits" by James Clear: Learn how small changes lead to remarkable results, anchored in reflection.

  • "Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown: Understand the role of vulnerability and reflection in effective leadership.

• Articles:

  • Harvard Business Review: The Power of Small Wins

  • Psychology Today: Why Self-Reflection Matters

• Scholarly Insights:

  • Schon, D. A. (1983). The Reflective Practitioner.

  • Dewey, J. (1933). How We Think.

Taking the First Step

Before I go I want to emphasize this point: reflection is not about dwelling on the past but using it as a launchpad for the future. As I embark on my own journey in 2025, I’m committed to stepping into a bigger version of myself—one that prioritizes joy, growth, and success. I invite you to join me in this transformative process.

Let’s make this year one of intentional action and unstoppable growth. Visit RADI8Coaching.com to explore how I can support you on this path.

Ready. Set. Go!

Reflection Question: What is one lesson from 2024 that you can use to fuel your growth in 2025? 

Drop your answer in the comments or share it with me directly—I’d love to hear from you!