Self Reflection

Self reflection and reflection is an activity which can help us to step away from a situation and look at it from different perspectives. 

Reflection is something that you become better at with more practice. It is a great self-help and personal growth tool. During difficult, traumatic and stressful times, it is hard to stop to reflect on the situation as your brain is under too much stress to be able to reflect. So find a time in the day, whether it be the first thing in the morning or before you go to bed to sit with your thoughts and reflect.

Take that moment to reflect on your emotions and why you are feeling this way.

Remember we have a multitude of thoughts and feelings which come and go throughout the day. Humans are bred to think negatively. This is why reflection is also helpful, as it can help us to acknowledge and challenge unhelpful negative thoughts. 

Try this reflection exercise below:

• What was the experience?

• How did you feel, what did you think, and what were your actions?

• Did you feel comfortable or satisfied with your thoughts, feelings, and actions? Or did you feel distressed by these thoughts and feelings? Did you feel your actions were not in line with who you are?

• What was in your control? What was out of your control?

• If you went through this same experience again what would you do differently or do again?

• Journal these thoughts and write a list of triggers that make you uncomfortable.

• Write a list of ways you can manage these triggers so that you have this handy for when you go through similar experiences.

Remember to be kind to yourself and others!