How to Check In With Yourself (And Why It Matters): A Holiday Reflection Guide
The holidays can be a whirlwind of events, gatherings, and to-do lists. With so much happening, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush and lose sight of our own needs. But amidst the holiday hustle, checking in with yourself can be one of the most powerful ways to stay grounded. A few minutes of self-reflection each day can make a huge difference in managing stress, staying connected to what matters, and enjoying the season fully.
In this guide, we’ll explore why checking in with yourself is so valuable and provide simple, supportive prompts to help you find peace and balance.
Why Self-Check-Ins Matter (Especially During the Holidays)
The practice of checking in with yourself is about taking a moment to recognise what you’re feeling and what you need. During the holidays, emotions can run high, from joy and excitement to stress and overwhelm. When we pause to acknowledge these feelings, we’re better equipped to handle whatever comes our way.
Studies show that regular self-reflection can reduce stress and improve emotional resilience. Taking time to listen to yourself helps you identify your needs, make healthier choices, and ultimately enjoy a more balanced holiday season.
Daily Prompts to Guide Your Self-Check-Ins
To make self-reflection easy, here are three simple prompts you can use throughout the season. Each prompt is designed to help you tune into your emotions, connect with what brings you joy, and find gratitude.
1. Start with “What Am I Feeling Right Now?”
This question is simple but powerful. By asking yourself what you’re feeling, you give yourself a moment to pause and acknowledge any emotions that may be under the surface. Naming your feelings – whether they’re positive, neutral, or challenging – can help you process them more effectively.
Why It Helps: Research shows that naming our emotions helps reduce their intensity and brings a sense of clarity. When we recognise our feelings without judgement, we become more present and less reactive.
Try This Prompt: “What am I feeling right now?” – Take a minute to write down any feelings that come up, without filtering or judging. If you’re feeling both joy and stress, for example, let both emotions exist together. This honesty allows for a more grounded experience.
2. Reflect on What Brings You Joy and Ease
During the holidays, it’s easy to get swept up in activities that might not truly bring us happiness. Reflecting on what genuinely brings you joy and ease can help you prioritise those moments and find ways to make them part of your routine.
Why It Helps: Research shows that reflecting on positive experiences helps create a more balanced mindset. By focusing on what’s working, you’re more likely to build a holiday season around things that feel nourishing.
Try This Prompt: “What small moments have I enjoyed most this week?”* – Reflect on simple things that made you feel good, whether it’s a quiet evening with a book, a cup of tea, or time with loved ones. Let these moments guide how you spend your time in the coming days.
3. End the Season with Gratitude
Gratitude can be a powerful tool for closing out the holiday season on a positive note. By focusing on what you’re thankful for, you can create a sense of closure that leaves you feeling content and fulfilled.
Why It Helps: Gratitude has been shown to improve mental health, increase happiness, and strengthen relationships. When we end the season with gratitude, we’re more likely to carry those positive feelings into the new year.
Try This Prompt: “What am I most grateful for this holiday season?” – Think about what’s brought you joy, connection, or peace over the past few weeks. This could be a special moment, a relationship, or even something as simple as a quiet morning. Reflecting on these moments helps you appreciate the season fully.
Create Your Own Check-In Rituals
In addition to using these prompts, try creating a few check-in rituals to help make self-reflection a natural part of your day. Here are some ideas for easy rituals that fit seamlessly into a busy holiday schedule.
1. Morning Journal Moment
Start your day with a short journal entry using one of the prompts above. Even a few lines can help set a positive tone for the day and keep you connected to yourself.
2. Midday Pause
Take a short break midday to check in with how you’re feeling and what you need. This could be a quick breathing exercise, a walk outside, or simply a moment of stillness. By giving yourself space to pause, you can recalibrate and approach the rest of the day with a clearer mind.
3. Evening Gratitude Reflection
Before bed, jot down one or two things you’re grateful for from the day. Reflecting on these moments helps you wind down, promotes better sleep, and encourages a sense of appreciation.
Holiday Self-Check-In: Finding Ease in Simplicity
Checking in with yourself doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, the beauty of these prompts is their simplicity. The goal is to reconnect with what truly matters to you – your feelings, your joys, and your moments of gratitude. By taking just a few minutes each day, you’re nurturing a sense of calm, presence, and balance throughout the season.
A More Mindful Holiday
This holiday season, make time for what truly matters – starting with yourself. By using these prompts and creating check-in rituals, you can stay connected to your well-being and approach each day with a sense of peace. Self-reflection is one of the best gifts you can give yourself, allowing you to enjoy the season in a way that feels both meaningful and manageable.
If you’re ready for more tips on finding ease and joy this holiday season, sign up for our free Well-ish Guide to Feeling Better this Holiday Season! With simple, grounding ideas for a more balanced holiday, it’s the perfect companion for a season that feels just right.
