Reflecting on 2016

Although I’m not that into making new year resolutions, as the new year beckons I always like to take a bit of time to reflect on the year gone by. I thought I’d share my reflections with you in my final post of 2016.

2016 has been a pretty good year! We’ve had some brilliant holidays (Norfolk, Dubai, Benahavis and a caribbean Disney Cruise!), I ran the London Marathon (still feels like a dream!), my great nephew was born and I’ve found myself a new job, which I start in the new year. In terms of blogging, I attended my first blogging conference, moved my blog to wordpress self-hosted, and I’ve worked with some great brands on some brilliant projects.

Above all else, I think the most important thing is that we’ve made it to 2017 without losing any friends or family along the way. Not everyone can say that and I know the festive season is especially hard for some people. This year we are one of the lucky ones.

Before I broke up from work for the Christmas break, a work colleague sent me an email, which include some great prompts for a bit of end of year reflection. I’m not sure where it came from, but I thought I’d share it on here, along with my personal reflections.

The clock turns, and yet another year draws to a close.

Take a moment and reflect. These questions will help you with next year.

What significant things happened for you in 2016?

I trained for and ran the London Marathon, my great nephew was born and I got a new job.

Who inspired you during the year?

My children are a big inspiration for me. I want to be a good role-model for them and to make them proud. Thinking of them certainly helped get me through my marathon.

In 2016 I was also inspired by a local woman who I didn’t know personally, but I knew of her. Earlier this year she was diagnosed with secondary liver cancer and died within a few weeks of her diagnosis. She left behind a loving partner and a seven year-old daughter. Like me, she was in her thirties. What happened to her was heartbreaking and made me realise that we really need to live for the moment and appreciate the time we have with our loved ones. We never really know how much time we actually have left.

What was your biggest achievement?

Running (and completing) the London Marathon – I’m not sure I’ll ever top this one!

What new friendship blossomed?

During 2016 friendships blossomed with some amazing people at work. I hope to stay in touch with them for a long time, even though I’m off to pastures new in the new year.

From here, where you are now, to where?

I hope to be more fulfilled and satisfied at work and I want to run more races (I’ve been a bit slack since the marathon). I hope to end 2017 happy and healthy.

The next steps on your journey will be…?

My new job! I start at the very beginning of January, so I’m taking my next steps early in the new year.

A new year is like a blank book, and the pen is in your hands.

It is your chance to write a beautiful story for yourself, and those around you, so write well.

Happy new year!

J xx