Simple 4-Step Monthly Reflection & Planning Guide

Intro

At the end of every month, it is important to reflect on what has happened during the past few weeks. It is equally important to look ahead and plan for the month to come. This is not as expansive as a one-year plan or five-year plan, but it is helpful to set smaller milestones as you pursue those large goals.

Getting Started

Before we get into the steps themselves, it is important to schedule a specific time to do this reflection. I would recommend setting aside thirty minutes to one hour specifically for this task. This will help your mind stay focused on the reflection and minimize distractions.

I would also recommend you get a physical notepad to write down your thoughts during your reflection. Writing things down helps you remember them better and gives you the chance to review your thoughts at a later date.

Step 1: Write Out Your Goal for the Previous Month

Did you have goals for this past month? If so, write them down. If you did not have any set goals, reflect on the major highlights of the month. What went well, what did not go well, your wins and failures, the big and small events. Write everything down.

Step 2: Gratitude and Repentance

Gratitude is very important. Being grateful for the things that went well, and even the things that did not go well, is a healthy posture to be in. Sometimes, after we get some perspective, even the things that did not go well turned out to be good things too. Give thanks to God for all the things that happened during your month, and to the people around you who helped you achieve what you accomplished during the month.

For repentance, note the people you need to apologies to. If you have hurt anyone during the month, note down their names. Pray to God for forgiveness for the past month as well. It is important to go into the new month with a fresh slate.

Step 3: Write Down Your New Goals

Now that you have reflected on the past month, it is time to look forward. Write down your goals for the new month. They do not have to be entirely new goals every month. You could have a yearly goal, and your new goals may be steps towards that final outcome. What do you want to achieve in the next few weeks? These can be money goals, they can be life goals, they can be health goals. Do not worry about the achievability of the goals. Just write them all down for now.

Step 4: Practical Steps

Now that you have your goals written out, it is time to think about the practical steps to take in the coming month. You can have a goal, but if you do not have an appropriate plan, you will not achieve it. What can you accomplish this month to move towards your major goals? Choose something that is achievable for you and will not intimidate you.

Summary

What is your goal for the new month? How practical can it be? Break it down to practical steps and set a date that you will start on. Once you have that date set, make certain you start! If you struggle with self-discipline, find someone to hold you accountable to your goals. Once you have finished your reflection, you are ready to move into the new month. Get out there and thrive!

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