Research has shown that reflection boosts productivity. Yet few of us make time to reflect. Why? For one, figuring out where to begin can be difficult. Start by identifying a few important questions that you want to address. Here are some possibilities: “What am I avoiding?” “How am I helping my colleagues achieve their goals?” “How am I not helping, or even hindering, their progress?” Then choose a reflection process that works for you. You can sit, walk, bike, or stand (alone or with a partner) while writing, talking, or thinking. Next — and this is important — schedule time on your calendar to do it. Start small. If an hour of reflection seems like too much, try 10 minutes. Just be still. Think. Consider multiple perspectives. Look at the opposite side of what you believe. You don’t have to like or agree with where your thoughts take you — just examine your thinking.
Adapted from "Why You Should Make Time for Self-Reflection (Even If You Hate Doing It)," by Jennifer Porter
