Review the Journey

As we move into 2016, take a look back over your own journey. Spend some time reminding yourself of everything in your life that’s changed for the better, and then invest a little time in appreciating how far you've come. Here are some questions to get you started:

• What progress have you made in your career? How has that benefited you?
• How has your financial situation improved? How does that make you feel?
• Who are the people in your life who matter the most to you? How has your relationship with them improved over time?
• What have you learned? Have you taken courses, learned from a mentor or your own experiences? How has this impacted your life?
• What new habits have you created? How have those improved your life?
• What obstacles have you overcome? How is your life different as a result?
• What experiences or opportunities have you taken advantage of that have had an impact on your life today?
• What have you done that has made a difference in the lives of others?

Spending some time feeling good about everything that you've accomplished is a powerful exercise. Often, we confuse acknowledging our accomplishments with bragging or arrogance but there’s a big difference. 

People who brag about their accomplishments do so to cover up their own insecurities and put others down in the process. Acknowledging your own successes just means owning who you are and channeling that understanding into creating an even better version of yourself. 

Whether you choose to chat about success with a friend or just pat yourself quietly on the back doesn't matter. Both are equally powerful, and you may be surprised at the impact counting your successes has on your mood and your motivation.