Test: What do you need most from a personal review?

There’s a fine balance between self-reflection and self-criticism – does your annual review tend to morph into a run-through of goals that weren’t achieved, plans that didn’t work out or times you let yourself or others down? Honest self-reflection is key to developing self-awareness, giving us the insight we need to grow and make better choices in the future. But an overly critical personal review can undermine your sense of self and leave you feeling helpless.

There is far more to be gained from reflecting on what went well, what you can feel proud of and what you’d like to do more of. If you struggle to look at yourself and your life through an objective lens, ask a trusted close friend or family member for input, perhaps offering the do the same for them.

Alternatively, try writing a list of what you have to be grateful for or good things that have happened to you and those around you over the past year. Then take time to go through the list and write down any part you played in making those things happen, however small. Acknowledging and mentally connecting with times when you were kind, brave, honest, wise, creative, authentic, loving or conscientious will help you approach the coming year with those qualities front of mind.