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N ot a m e m b e r ? J o i n at a s so c iate d h a i rp rofe s sio n a ls .c o m 49 the spark believe everyone should set aside some time each year to look back on the past 12 months, and then look forward to the next 12 months. For me, the new year is a time to wrap up old projects, revisit wish lists, and determine the road ahead. But you can also choose your birthday, or the anniversary of your business opening, or a specific weekend during your quietest month to look forward and look back. No matter when you decide to do it, it's important to take this time for yourself— once a year, without fail. REFLECT I often begin each new year by reflecting on the previous one. This is a phase in which I consider all the blessings that came my way, contemplate the many things I am thankful for, and take time to appreciate what I have accomplished. I find it equally important to reflect on the steps Take Time for the Three Rs Reflect, refocus, and restore to give yourself and your business a kick start by Gina Rivera I took that made me more effective so I'm ready to apply them in future situations. Reflecting on the previous year is also a chance for me to evaluate times where I missed the mark, as well as how I handled adversity. I think about the challenges I overcame and how I worked through them. Overcoming a challenge can also be a period of intense growth. Personal growth normally happens when I am in an uncomfortable or unfamiliar situation—moments where I can develop and stretch myself as a person. Reflecting also helps me realize that making mistakes is OK because it opens me to new prospects. At first, self-reflection may seem difficult or troublesome. You may not know why you need it, and you may not understand the benefits. However, taking time for self- reflection leads to greater self-awareness, which in turn leads to self-improvement. Likewise, having a strong sense of self improves confidence and your level of self-esteem. Areas I like to reflect on include my relationships, home and family, career, health and well-being, finances, goals, my faith and personal growth, and fun and recreation. If you aren't sure how to get started, consider developing a list of questions for yourself, and set aside some quiet time to answer them. patrick schneider/unsplash N ot a m e m b e r ? J o i n at a s so c iate d h a i rp rofe s sio n a ls .c o m 49 I