How do you measure a year?

The beautiful song “Seasons of Love” from the musical RENT invites us to reflect on how we measure a year. The lyrics start with:

525,600 minutes 525,000 moments so dear 525,600 minutes How do you measure, measure a year?

In daylights, in sunsets, in midnights, in cups of coffee In inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife In 525,600 minutes How do you measure a year in the life?

How about love? How about love? How about love? Measure in love Seasons of love Seasons of love

As we approach the end of the year, it’s a natural time for reflection and contemplation. During the festive season’s hustle and bustle, it’s worth taking a few moments to ponder how we measure a year and what wisdom we can extract from it.

In the Southern Hemisphere, where I am based, this time of year brings warmth and longer days, and it’s often a time when many Australians take a break from their usual routines. It’s a time to connect with loved ones, unwind, and yes, reflect.

So, how do you measure a year?

The answer to this question can be as unique as each individual.

Traditionally how we measure a year is about goals achieved, the things we hoped to accomplish and tracking our journey and progress.

What about the less tangible ways to measure this year?

Personal and Professional Growth: Reflect on how you’ve developed and grown throughout the year. Have you developed new skills and strengths, learned new things, expanded your horizons, or? Professional and personal growth is a valuable measure of time, and it’s often a source of wisdom.

Connections Made: The relationships we form throughout the year are another meaningful way to measure time. Have you strengthened existing bonds or forged new connections? These connections are part of what makes life rich and fulfilling.

Challenges Overcome: Life is full of challenges, and each year presents its own set of hurdles. Reflect on the challenges you faced and how you overcame them. These experiences can teach you valuable lessons.

Moments of Joy: Sometimes, it’s the simple moments of joy and happiness that define a year. Think about the moments that brought a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.

Giving Back: Have you made a positive impact on others this year? Whether it’s through your work, volunteering, or acts of kindness, measuring a year can also involve assessing how you’ve contributed to the well-being of others.

Deepened Self-Compassion: Treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you offer to others. It’s a powerful tool in maintaining your emotional well-being. Have you deepened your self-compassion this year?

Enhanced Self-Care: Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity, and it’s a fundamental component of maintaining one’s well-being. Have you built greater self-care practices this year? What habits have you incorporated into your routine that supports your well-being?

Measuring a year is about acknowledging your growth, celebrating the fulfillment of your values learning from challenges, and cherishing the moments of joy. It is not just about outward achievements.

As we head into the festive season and the year draws to a close, take the time to reflect on what this year has meant to you. It’s through this reflection that we can glean the wisdom of our year and move forward with purpose and gratitude.

I want to wish you well for the festive season and I hope that 2024 brings peace and joy to all of our beautiful planet’s peoples.

I’ll be taking a break and back online later in January.