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Reflecting on the past year is something we like to do as a family.
It’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and connect with the people who matter most.
Whether you’re gathered around the dining table or cuddled up by the fire.
Taking a moment to look back on the past year can be powerful. It’s a great way to build gratitude and learn from your experiences.
Reflection doesn’t have to be complicated or boring.
A simple conversation or journaling session can spark meaningful insights.
And bring your family closer together.
Here’s how you can create a special moment to reflect on the highs and lessons of the past year.
Enjoy and don’t forget to comment at the end, I love hearing from you and subscribe to get access to FREE printables, newsletters, the latest posts and more.
Setting the Scene
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Create a Comfortable Space: Choose a time when everyone can relax without distractions. That means no phones or TVs.
Light a candle, play some soft music or my favourite. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows together.
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Provide Tools for Reflection: Have notebooks and pens ready if your family likes to write or draw.
Purchase notebooks and more from my shop here.
You can also use a whiteboard, sticky notes, or even just chat.
Whatever works best for your family’s style is the right choice.
Reflecting on the past year
Here are some prompts or ideas to get the conversation or journaling flowing.
These questions are to help everyone think about the past year in a way that’s positive and constructive:
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What was your favourite moment of the year?
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Think about a time when you felt really happy, excited, or proud. What made that moment special?
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What’s something new you learned?
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It could be a skill, a fact, or even something about yourself or someone else.
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What’s a challenge you faced, and how did you overcome it?
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Reflecting on tough times can remind us how strong and capable we are.
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What are you most grateful for this year?
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Gratitude helps us see the good, even in a tough year.
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Who made a positive impact on your life, and how?
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Take a moment to appreciate the people who supported you, or simply made you smile.
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What’s a mistake or regret that taught you something important?
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Mistakes are an important part of life, and they often come with valuable lessons.
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What’s one thing you’d like to leave behind as the year ends?
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This could be a bad habit, a fear. Anything or anyone that’s not serving you anymore.
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What’s one goal or dream you’re excited about for next year?
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Looking ahead with hope can be just as important as reflecting on the past.
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Tips for Discussion
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Listen with an Open Heart: Encourage everyone to share without fear of judgment. This is a safe space, to be honest and vulnerable.
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Celebrate Differences: Each person’s highlights and lessons might look different. That’s okay. It’s part of what makes your family unique.
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End on a High Note: After everyone has shared. Take a moment to express gratitude for each other and the time you’ve spent together.
- Download my FREE goals printables
Bee's Final Thoughts
Taking time to reflect on the past year isn’t just about nostalgia.
It’s a way to recognise how far you’ve come, and how strong you are. A chance to thank yourself and others for the tough times and good.
You often learn something about yourself and others that you may not have noticed before.
It’s a great way to appreciate the good things in life.
When families come together to share these moments, it deepens connections. It creates a sense of belonging.
So grab a notebook, cosy up with your loved ones, and take a moment to look back on the year that was.
You might be surprised at what comes up and this gives you a chance to see what you want for the year ahead.
Read Make 2025 amazing: Family goals made easy and fun
And Mindful spending: strategies for the new year
Thanks for reading.
