2024: your year review

We all strive for growth, but sometimes we shy away from asking ourselves the questions that truly matter—the ones that dig deep and spark real change. If you're looking to enhance the quality of your life, it’s time to get honest and ask yourself some spicy, uncomfortable, yet empowering questions. Here’s how to ask them and actionable steps to take for meaningful growth.

1. What am I avoiding, and why?

How to address it: Take a moment to reflect on the tasks, feelings, or conversations you consistently avoid. Are there things you're pushing aside because they’re uncomfortable or difficult? Write them down. This could be a difficult conversation with a friend or partner, a career decision, or emotions you’ve been suppressing. Identify the root of why you're avoiding these things—fear, uncertainty, or maybe even pride—and confront them one at a time. Start small by taking action in manageable steps.

2.  Am I living according to my values, or someone else’s?

How to address it: Make a list of your core values—things like honesty, freedom, compassion, and ambition. Then, compare them to your daily life. Are your decisions, relationships, and career aligned with these values, or do they reflect someone else’s expectations? Adjustments can be hard, but living authentically is essential for lasting happiness. Begin by making one change, no matter how small, to realign yourself with what matters to you.

3. Where am I settling in life, and how can I do better?

How to address it: Examine your current situation. Are there areas—relationships, career, personal development—where you know you’re settling? Acknowledge where you’ve accepted less than what you deserve or want. Then ask yourself: What small step can I take to improve in that area? For example, if you’re settling at work, look into learning new skills or pursuing other opportunities.

4.  Am I genuinely happy, or just comfortable?

How to address it: Differentiate between comfort and happiness by reflecting on your daily routines. Are you staying where you are because it’s easy, or because it truly fulfills you? Write down what activities, people, or environments bring you true joy versus what you tolerate just because it’s familiar. Take a bold step towards choosing happiness over comfort, like joining a new group, trying a new hobby, or setting a challenging goal.

5.  Who in my life uplifts me, and who drains me?

How to address it: Create two lists: one for people who energize and support you, and one for those who drain your energy or bring negativity. Don’t be afraid to reevaluate certain relationships. Consider reducing your time with those who drain you and increasing interactions with those who help you grow and feel positive.

6.  Am I taking care of my physical and mental health, or am I neglecting them?

How to address it: Evaluate your current habits—sleep, diet, exercise, and mental self-care (like meditation or journaling). Are you prioritizing your health, or is it an afterthought? Make one change today that benefits your health, such as adding 10 minutes of daily exercise or reducing screen time before bed. Consistency over time is key to improvement.

7.  What fears are holding me back, and how can I face them?

How to address it: Acknowledge your fears by writing them down. Whether it’s fear of failure, rejection, or change, understand that fear is a natural part of growth. Once you’ve identified the fear, break it down into smaller, manageable parts. Face one small aspect of the fear at a time. For example, if you fear public speaking, start by speaking in front of a small, familiar group.

8.  Am I investing in my future, or just getting through the present?

How to address it: Look at your daily actions. Are they short-term fixes, or are they building towards a better future? Set long-term goals in areas such as career, health, finances, or relationships. Then create small, actionable steps that you can take now to set the foundation for future success. For instance, saving a small amount of money each month or committing to learning a new skill will compound over time.

9.  What stories am I telling myself that limit my potential?

How to address it: We all have inner narratives—“I’m not good enough,” “I’m too old to start,” etc. Challenge these limiting beliefs by questioning their validity. Ask yourself: Is this story based on fact, or fear? Replace these stories with affirmations that support your growth. Instead of “I can’t,” try “I’m learning how to,” and shift your mindset to one of possibility.

10.  How often do I express gratitude, and how can I do it more?

How to address it: Gratitude is a powerful tool for shifting your mindset. Start a daily gratitude practice, whether through journaling, verbal expression, or even a quick mental note. List three things you're grateful for each day, no matter how small. This practice will help you focus on the positives in your life and foster a sense of contentment.

By actively answering and acting on these questions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of yourself and unlock new paths for growth, happiness, and fulfillment. It’s not just about asking the questions but about being open to making the necessary changes that will elevate your life to the next level.