Why Reflection Matters as a Leader

Leadership is not just about directing others; it’s also about self-leadership. Reflecting helps us uncover blind spots, recognize patterns, and reconnect with our “why.” It’s a discipline that sharpens our ability to guide others and instills confidence in our vision. By setting aside time for intentional self-review, we cultivate the awareness necessary to grow in all areas of our lives.

The Annual Self-Review Activity

Here’s a step-by-step process I use either the last week of December or the first week of January annually. It’s adaptable, so you can make it your own or share it with others:

Step 1: Celebrate Your Wins

Start by listing your accomplishments over the past year. Think broadly: personal milestones, professional achievements, skills you’ve developed, and relationships you’ve nurtured. Writing these down helps you acknowledge your progress and creates a positive foundation for future goals.

Questions to ask yourself:

• What am I most proud of in 2024?
• Which goals did I achieve or surpass?
• Who supported me, and how can I express my gratitude?

Step 2: Learn from Your Challenges

Reflecting on challenges is not about dwelling on what went wrong; it’s about understanding what you can do better. Identify obstacles you encountered and think about the lessons they’ve taught you.

Questions to ask yourself:

• What were my biggest challenges this year?
• How did I handle them, and what could I have done differently?
• What lessons will I carry forward?

Step 3: Clarify Your Vision for the New Year

Once you’ve reflected on your wins and challenges, it’s time to look ahead. What does success look like for you in the coming year? Set clear intentions for your personal and professional life.

Questions to ask yourself:

• What are my 7 to 10 goals for 2025?
• Of my goals, what are my top three priorities that I want to focus on in Q1?
• What habits or practices will help me achieve my goals?
• How will I measure success?

Step 4: Share and Inspire

One of the most powerful aspects of this exercise is sharing it with others. Whether it’s with your leadership team, your family, or your closest friends, inviting others to reflect alongside you builds connection and accountability. Plus, you never know who might be inspired by your journey.

To make this process even easier, I’ve created a downloadable fillable PDF that walks you through each step. It’s designed to be flexible so that you can use it individually or share it with others in your circle. Click the link below to access the guide and take the first step toward a more intentional year.

Download the Self-Review Guide

A Personal Note

Reflection is deeply personal, but sharing my own experiences has been transformative. For instance, when I looked back at this year, I found that my biggest growth moments came from challenges I didn’t anticipate. By leaning into those moments, I discovered strengths I didn’t know I had. Sharing these lessons not only helped me but also sparked valuable conversations with my team.

As you embark on your own self-review, I encourage you to personalize it. Add your voice, share your insights, and don’t shy away from celebrating your wins or learning from setbacks. This isn’t just a year-end exercise; it’s a leadership practice that can drive your growth year-round.

Here’s to a year of growth, purpose, and impactful leadership!

DOWNLOADABLE FILLABLE FORM