"If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome."

Anne Dudley Bradstreet (1612-72) English-born Colonial poet

My diary says that today is the Winter Solstice, the official first day of winter and the shortest day of the year! In the northern hemisphere, the Winter solstice is day of the year when the Sun is farthest south. However, in the southern hemisphere, winter and summer solstices are exchanged, so that the winter solstice is the day on which the Sun is farthest north. (So this may not apply to you!) For many people the Winter Solstice is heralded as a turning point, and as a reminder that in order for a new path to begin, the old one must end and that spring will come again. In many societies and religions, this turning point is celebrated with feasting and flames which light up the dark winter nights. It is a time of celebration for what has gone before and a time to look to the future.

Today I am keen to review and reflect on everything that has taken place since the last Winter Solstice. I have had an incredible year, both personally, as well as professionally, and I can look back at even my most testing times and feel satisfied that I have managed to get something from each situation. Sometimes it seemed like I was going backwards, but taking everything into consideration, I can see I have moved forward greatly. I havent done this alone, but with the support of the most amazing group of people which include family, friends, my trainer, other coaches, business and networking contacts, business advisors, and not least, my wonderful clients, who certainly keep me on my toes!

What about you? When you look back over the year, what do you see? Take a moment to reflect on what the last 12 months have offered you in the way of challenges and achievements. What were your greatest triumphs, your most challenging moments? How did you handle them? What did you learn from them? And dont forget the small things that make up everyday living. For some people, just getting through each day is an achievement. Celebrate the little things as well. They may be small, but they should never be overlooked.

Did you actually have any goals at the beginning of this period? If you did, were they SMART Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-driven? How far have you progressed? What more do you need to do?

What are the things that you find you consistently put off? Is there a pattern here? How can you learn from this? What do you need to do to break the pattern? Who do you need to get assistance from?

In the last 12 months, how much time did you give to yourself? Without allowing yourself time to recharge and reenergize, you will not be fit to go forward with anything. Like a rubber band that has been pulled tighter and tighter, something will eventually give SNAP!

How have your stamina and fitness levels held up over the year? Are you full of energy, raring to go, or do you find yourself flagging? Adding activity to your day takes consideration and determination, but it can be done, and in very simple ways. If you need to make changes here then the first step is to look at your daily routines and see where you can add a little more in the way of movement and action.

How many times did you have that conversation in your head? You know, the one that goes like this Why on earth didnt I say no to that? I cant believe I didnt speak up! I do this all the time. I am pushed to the limit and I still accept more work, more commitments. Oh why, why didnt I say no? Ring any bells? No? Good for you. Yes? We need to talk about assertiveness!

What new things do you do this year? Did you go somewhere youve never been before? Did you speak to someone new? Did you learn a new language? How about trying some new food? There are so many new experiences waiting out there for you! Go ahead, if you havent tried anything yet! And if you have, please carry on. Each new experience will teach you not only about what is out there, but how you respond to fresh and novel occasions. So, did you write? Paint? Sing? Make music? Cook? In what ways do you enjoy expressing yourself creatively? How can you do more of it in the next 12 months?

Did you do something for nothing? What does this actually mean to you? It can relate to the monetary cost of something or perhaps the cost to you in time and effort. It is such a personal thing that only you can assess how you have achieved in this area. I hope looking back over the year gives you a sense of satisfaction at what you have achieved.