Why Looking Back is the New Self-Care: Reflect, Recharge, and Realign Your Life

Why Looking Back is the New Self-Care: Reflect, Recharge, and Realign Your Life

With 2024 enters its final stretch, there’s a unique power in taking a pause and reflecting on the journey so far. In a world that constantly urges us to push forward, it’s easy to get swept up in the next goal, the next project, or the next milestone, often without stopping to acknowledge our progress. But sometimes, the most meaningful way to move forward is by rewinding—by looking back, recharging our energy, and realigning with what truly matters.

This month, let’s explore the transformative potential of reflection, why a moment of pause can fuel future growth, and how re-centering ourselves can set the stage for more intentional living as we approach the new year. Rewinding isn’t about dwelling in the past; it’s about empowering ourselves with clarity, purpose, and a renewed sense of direction.

Reflect: Look Back with Compassion 🌿

Reflection is such a simple concept, yet it can be surprisingly hard to do without a critical lens. It’s easy to dwell on what didn’t go as planned or focus on the “should-haves.” But true reflection is about looking back with compassion, seeing each experience as a part of your growth.

Personally, I’ve had to remind myself of this lesson many times, especially in my journey as a business owner and a half-marathon trainee. Some days, I nail my goals and feel like I’m on top of the world. Other days, I struggle, feeling like progress is slow or wondering if I’m on the right path.

One practice that’s helped me is setting aside intentional time at the start of each month to reflect on what I’ve achieved and learned. This isn’t about checking boxes or giving myself a performance review; it’s about genuinely acknowledging my efforts and the small (but meaningful) steps forward. It’s so important to celebrate those little wins—they add up and remind us that growth isn’t always about giant leaps. This month, as you rewind, try to ask yourself:

• What’s something I’m proud of that I’ve accomplished recently?

• When did I feel most aligned with my goals, and what contributed to that feeling?

• Are there moments that taught me something valuable about resilience, patience, or self-compassion?

Reader Insight: “I’ve been journaling since July, and it’s incredible to look back and see how my thoughts have evolved. I’ve grown more confident and intentional with my days. Reflecting helps me see my own progress, even when it feels slow.” – Jess, Wellness Rewind Reader

Remember, this isn’t about perfection—it’s about appreciating the journey and the person you’re becoming along the way.

Recharge: Fuel Yourself for What’s Next ⚡️

After reflecting, you’ll likely gain some clarity on what truly matters to you, and that’s where recharging comes in. Reflection often reveals where we’ve been putting too much pressure on ourselves, or where we might be spinning our wheels in ways that aren’t sustainable. In my life, balancing my businesses, training for a race, and living mindfully isn’t always smooth sailing. There are times when I realize I’m stretched too thin and need to take a step back to recharge.

One thing I love to do is create little mini-retreats for myself. Sometimes, this means unplugging for a weekend—putting away my phone, stepping away from social media, and focusing on things that truly bring me joy and calm, like spending time with my dog Mila, diving into a good book, or just being outdoors. It’s amazing how these small acts of self-care can refuel us in profound ways.

Reader Insight: “I decided to step back from social media once a week to recharge. At first, it felt odd, but now it’s my favorite day of the week. I feel more centered and present in my own life.” – Liam, Wellness Rewind Reader

So, here’s a question for you: What does recharging look like in your life? Is it a day with friends, a solo coffee shop morning, or an hour lost in a good book? Identify what truly fills your cup, and make a commitment to yourself to do it this month. Recharging isn’t about taking yourself out of the game; it’s about making sure you have the energy to keep playing at your best.

Realign: Focus on Growth 🌱

Once you’ve taken the time to reflect and recharge, the next step is realigning with your goals. Realignment is all about looking forward and ensuring your actions are aligned with what you truly want. For me, this process often includes revisiting the “why” behind my goals. As Root + Renew and my personal brand have grown, I’ve realized how easy it is to get sidetracked by external pressures or fleeting trends. But realignment allows me to bring my focus back to what truly matters.

This is where a small exercise that I practice at the start of each month and week comes in handy. I like to sit down and ask myself two questions:

1. What do I want to achieve this week (or month)?

2. What am I willing to do to achieve it?

Then, I write out my intention in a simple, powerful statement:

For example, if I want to be more mindful, I might write, “I intend to take three mindful pauses each day in order to feel more grounded and present.” Or, if I’m working on my half-marathon training, it might be, “I intend to stick to my training schedule in order to feel prepared and confident on race day.” This practice helps me stay aligned with my priorities and gives me a clear focus.

Reader Insight: “I started the year focused on intense workouts, but through reflection, I realized I wanted more balance. Now I’ve integrated more yoga and mindful stretching, and I feel stronger both physically and mentally.” – Sarah, Wellness Rewind Reader

This month, try incorporating this exercise into your routine. Setting intentions can give you a renewed sense of purpose and serve as a gentle reminder of what you’re working toward.

Your Rewind Challenge for the Month 📝

Let’s make November a month of intentional reflection and mindful action. Here’s a little challenge to guide you through this journey:

1. Reflect: Take a few moments to write down one accomplishment from the past few months that you’re proud of. Celebrate it fully, without downplaying your success.

2. Recharge: Identify one activity or habit that truly fills your energy and brings you joy. Make time for it this week—even if it’s just for 15 minutes—and savor it without distractions.

3. Realign: Try the intention-setting exercise. Write down your intention for the week: “I intend to _____ in order to _____.” Allow this statement to guide your actions and keep you focused on what truly matters.

Feel free to share your reflections! it’s always nice to hear from readers like you. Hit reply or send me a DM on Instagram and let’s chat about what you’re celebrating, what’s fueling you, and what you’re working towards. Your insights could inspire others in our Wellness Rewind community. After all, we’re on this journey together, each taking our own steps toward mindful, balanced living.

If you prefer listening over reading, we’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast-style audio version of this article, condensed for easy listening, created with Google’s NotebookLM. Perfect for a quick, on-the-go wellness boost!

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