The holiday season is upon us, and as we reflect on the year that has passed, it is important to take a moment to appreciate our growth and progress, no matter how big or small. This time of year offers us the opportunity to slow down, check in with ourselves, and celebrate the wins we have experienced.
As we approach the winter solstice and the return to longer days, it is a time to reflect on the changes we have made, the transformations we are undergoing, and the progress we have made on our personal, psychological, or spiritual journeys. It is a time to acknowledge the challenges we have faced and the growth we have experienced.
Maybe this year you confronted issues instead of burying them, stayed in a hotel to avoid holiday blow-ups, or unburdened yourself from past grievances. Perhaps you set boundaries with loved ones, managed your expectations realistically, or initiated difficult conversations. Whatever progress you have noticed, take a moment to celebrate it and appreciate the journey you have been on.
Here are some gentle ways to track your growth without turning it into another self-improvement project:
1. Let Your Body Tell the Truth: Tune into your body and notice any changes in your nervous system compared to last year. Do you recover faster after being triggered? Do you recognize when a part has taken over? Pay attention to somatic signs of growth.
2. Track Capacity, Not Perfection: Progress is not about never getting activated; it’s about having more capacity when you do. Acknowledge when you still struggle but have more self-energy available to navigate challenges.
3. Appreciate Your Protectors for Evolving: Thank your inner parts for their hard work and evolution. Acknowledge the progress they have made in protecting you and keeping you safe.
4. Notice Where You Chose Yourself: Celebrate the moments when you chose yourself over others’ expectations or desires. Recognize the times you prioritized your own well-being and needs.
5. Allow Grief to Coexist With Gratitude: It’s okay to feel both gratitude for your growth and grief for the challenges you have faced. Let these emotions coexist and honor the journey you have been on.
As the year comes to a close, consider creating a gentle closing ritual to honor your progress. Light a candle, write a note to your inner parts, or make a piece of art to celebrate how far you have come. Remember, you are not behind or failing; you are exactly where you need to be on your journey of growth and healing. Living in the midst of a human nervous system during this unprecedented era in history is a unique experience. It is a time where we have the opportunity to cultivate more awareness, compassion, and integrity in our lives than ever before. Embracing and acknowledging this reality is a valuable gift that we can give ourselves this season.
If you are looking to treat yourself to another gift, consider joining us for LOVE SCHOOL or THE WRITER’S CALLING in 2026. Alternatively, you can also explore the option of signing up for the Transformational Mentoring program, where you will receive personalized IFS-informed mentoring either through Zoom or, coming soon in 2026, in person in West Sonoma County for full-day intensives. Keep an eye out for more information on this exciting opportunity as we approach the New Year.
Remember, you are not alone in navigating this journey within the human nervous system. Embrace the challenges and opportunities that come your way with openness and curiosity. By doing so, you are not only enriching your own experience but also contributing to the collective growth and evolution of humanity.