Retrospectives are a powerful tool for growth and reflection. Taking the time to deliberately think about what worked, what didn’t, and what you need to change going forward is instrumental to growth. Here’s a step-by-step guide to conducting your own personal retrospective.
First, set the scene: Find a comfortable space to focus. I find it helpful to have a whiteboard or a space to spread out with Post-it notes or notecards. Think of it as a date with yourself—self-reflection but with less pressure to impress.
Next, grab your tools: You’ll need your trusty journal or laptop (if you prefer digital diaries), Post-its or note cards, and something to write with. Don’t forget a hot beverage of choice—tea, coffee, or a mug of wisdom (just kidding, but if you have one, why not?) to make it more comfortable.
Now, think back: Reflect on the period you want to review. It could be a week, a month, or even a year. What went down during this period? Wins, losses, embarrassing moments you’d rather forget—note it all.
The Good, The Bad, The Meh: Channel your inner movie critic and evaluate your experiences. Celebrate victories, acknowledge setbacks, and take notes on the “meh” moments. It’s all about learning and growing, not just self-criticism.
Now, connect the dots: Look for patterns. Are there recurring themes or behaviors? Recognizing these can help you understand your tendencies better. Maybe you always procrastinate on Tuesdays—time to tackle that!
With that done, we enter the last phase of the exercise: learning mode. This is where the magic happens. What did you learn from these experiences? No, not just the “oh, that’s cool” kind of learning, but the real, actionable stuff. Identify lessons that could help you level up.
And the final step, goal setting: Armed with newfound wisdom, devise 3-5 goals (or refine previously set goals). How do can they be supported by the behaviors that worked well this year? Can you figure out mitigation strategies to combat that didn’t go so well?
Lastly, rinse and repeat: Make this a habit. Regular retrospectives can be your secret weapon in the quest for personal growth and self-awareness. Plus, it’s a legit excuse to treat yourself to some reflective me-time. Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about progress. So, embrace the journey, quirks, and all!
And just to make it a little easier, here are two Free resources for doing your own personal retro: