Do you include reflection in your life? It can be a valuable tool to use in leading to fulfillment and happiness. This essay will explore some of the whys, wheres, whens, and hows of this topic.
First we might ask, what is reflection and what are the benefits of reflecting? Reflection is a thought process. It’s about examining what goes on around us, as well as within, in order to understand how life is progressing and ultimately, how to live the best life possible. On a very personal level, reflection can help with self-understanding. It is a means for learning who we are and what our purpose in life may be. Self-understanding can be a good barometer to guide us through the ups and downs of life. That awareness helps us make good decisions for ourselves.
The benefits of reflection are enormous. Very simply, you are in charge. You evaluate whether you are happy or unhappy, in order to determine the direction your life takes. You decide to take the happy route or the unhappy one. You and only you make the choice. At times we think we are at the mercy of outside forces, but in truth that is not so. You have the power to determine where you live, who you associate with, what job you take, and so forth. Believe in your own power. Be a deliberate creator of your life. Take the time to make your life the best it can be. Will it improve immediately? Perhaps a bit. It’s a process that takes time, but little by little, reflection by reflection, life can get better and better, as long as you are consciously focused on what you want.
Where is a good place to reflect and how can it be done? Usually, sitting by oneself in a quiet place is best. In that setting, you can have a conversation with yourself. Perhaps meditation is how you get in touch with what is going on inside you. Or you may like to walk, or jog, in nature; sit by a stream or pond; go to a church; write in a journal; listen to music; do yoga; get some Reiki, take a shower. Or you may start out by talking intimately with someone you trust and then consider how the conversation applies to you. However you choose, be comfortable with it.
People also reflect at various times of the day. Some make a routine of meditating, walking, writing, or exercising in the morning or evening. Others fit in the time whenever possible. The key is to make sure to take the time. Establishing a routine or habit can be the best way to help yourself in reflecting.
Often in this society, we are so busy, so involved with jobs, families, and various activities we “must” do”, that time to stop and consider what is transpiring in our lives does not avail itself easily. Yet, we are responsible for how our lives turn out. Do you ask yourself any of these questions? Am I headed in the right direction? What exactly is the right direction? Should I make sacrifices to reach my objectives? Are these sacrifices worth it in the long run? Am I coming from a place of negativity, or a place of love? How easily is my life flowing? Each of us has the power to determine the direction of the flow. Being in conscious thought and reflecting on what goes on in one’s life provides the power to move in a positive direction. Simply reacting to whatever happens, relinquishes personal power to others.
How we feel about the above questions helps us determine the answers. What emotion comes to mind in asking? On one hand, pausing to reflect on our lives and honestly admitting to feeling inspired, happy, loving, excited, and content in all areas, tells us we are moving in exactly the right direction. We are, in fact, in unison with that which sustains us, which is Source energy. When every part of life works well for us, we are vibrating at an extremely high level. We move through life easily and with much accomplishment, without being sabotaged by the ego.
Frequently, however, there are unfulfilled, or unsatisfactory parts in our lives, reflected in “red flag” feelings like anger, depression, shame, blame, jealousy, anxiety, low self-esteem, lack, or any other lower emotion. In paying attention to an emotion, and reflecting on how that emotion influences our life, it then becomes more easy to recognize and admit something may not be right. This knowledge can help us make changes for the better. Many people do not take the time to focus on what it is they are feeling. Or they know they are unhappy, but have a difficult time articulating exactly what is wrong. Reflecting helps us gain a focus, which in turn helps us to help ourselves through change or redirection. Being unhappy and allowing oneself to remain in that state, does nothing to improve life. However, being unhappy and focusing on making oneself a bit happier, one step at a time, can be a powerful means of turning life around.
How do you wish to live your life? Think about it. Examine your goals and aspirations. Are you living to please others, or are you striving for an inspired life filled with energy, love, happiness, and peace? Reflection can help you understand how to become the best you can be.
