Scientists have found that we are prospective in nature: we are always looking towards the future, imagining what might be and who we might become.
That's why it's so important that we direct our attention to the past, too — specifically, to remember how far we have come.
Mentally flip back in your mind, to where you were at the beginning of this year.
What were you thinking about, feeling, and hoping for? Were you dealing with a specific challenge? Were you trying something new? What parts of you have changed since that, and what parts have stayed the same?
Slowly, now, return back to the present moment. Move through the months, from February to April to July to October to today.
Think about all that you have learned.
You learned about your self, other people, and the world. You learned practical skills at work, in a course from school, or through a hobby. You learned inner skills that changed the way you feel on the inside, like setting boundaries or speaking up.
You learned more than you thought you did, didn't you?
Now, remember all of the people you loved.
Let their faces, voices and hearts come to mind. Remember the birthdays, coffee chats, phone calls, silly text messages, and funny videos shared. Think back to the hugs, the laughter, and the compassion.
There was a lot of love, wasn't there?
Finally, reflect upon how you contributed.
You did so many wonderful things. I bet you took a lot of them for granted. (Those who benefitted from your actions didn't, though.)
Think about the thoughts you shared, the work you created, the customers you made smile, the plants you watered, the food you dropped off, the games you made up to entertain your kids, the friendships you showed up for. There were problems that you helped to solve, burdens you helped to alleviate, and joys that you helped to create.
Those contributions, though they may feel small in the moment, add up to something so big.
You did a lot of good, didn't you?
I hope that you take a moment to celebrate these things.
It's clear: you are a wonder, aren't you?
As you reflect, you might catch a glimpse of something important. Maybe these are the things that matter most. Learning, love and contribution. And they are both infinitely extensible — which means that you have so much more to look forward to in the days ahead.