An end of year reflection

As the year comes to a close, it’s natural to feel the pull to “reflect” and “plan ahead.”

But when you’re grieving, whether that loss is recent or years old, traditional reflection questions can feel unaligned or even triggering.

You didn’t choose this version of your life, you didn’t plan for this timeline.

This isn’t about goal-setting or productivity.
 This is about acknowledging what you’ve carried, and creating space for what comes next.

 

Before you reflect, pause here

If 2025 has been harder than you expected, you’re not behind.

If it’s been quieter, heavier, or simply about survival, that still counts.

And if it’s been a mix of grief and growth, joy and sadness… that is okay. Reflection after loss isn’t about “fixing” anything but orienting yourself gently toward the future.

Step 1: check in with the reality of this year

Instead of asking “Did I achieve what I planned?”, try this:

What actually mattered this year?

Ask yourself:
1. What worked, even in small ways?
2. What didn’t work, and felt draining or misaligned?
3. Where did I push myself too hard?
4. Where did I honour my limits?

Step 2: Notice where your energy went

Loss forces us to become incredibly selective… often without realising it.

Ask gently:
* Am I spending my time on what truly matters now?
* What felt meaningful, grounding, or supportive?
* What felt like obligation, pressure, or expectation?


Step 3: Clear before you add

One of the most important lessons after loss:
You don’t need to add more to move forward.

Before planning 2026, consider:
* What no longer fits this version of my life?
* What expectations am I carrying that aren’t mine anymore?
* What can I release without explanation?

Letting go is a form of planning.

Step 4: Honour what you’ve already been though

This step matters… especially when grief tells you that you’re “not doing enough.”
Write down three things you’ve:
* handled
* overcome
* or grown through this year

They don’t need to be impressive, just honest.

Step 5: Look toward 2026… gently

Planning after loss isn’t about five-year visions.

It’s about creating enough safety and support for the next season.

Instead of goals, ask:
* What would feel supportive next year?
* What do I need less of?
* What would help me feel steadier, not busier?
You’re allowed to plan a year that protects you.

A final thought

Loss changes the way we move through time.
It shifts priorities, capacity, identity, and direction.

So if your reflection looks different this year, slower, quieter, more emotional, you’re doing it right.
This isn’t about getting back to who you were.

It’s about honouring who you’re becoming.

If you’re navigating grief and want support through reflection, planning, or special occasions, you don’t have to do it alone.

Save this reflection, come back to it when you’re ready… or reach out if you’d like support taking the next gentle step forward.