During a longer fast last year, two things became increasingly clear:
- I want to take more time to reflect. I gain so much by slowing down.
- I want to help my family do the same.
So, we’ve started a new annual family tradition on Jan 1.
90 minutes of quiet, individual, guided reflection. (We also dress up, take fun pictures, and go out to a nice dinner to share more about our reflections). I went looking for a template that would be compelling for my two teenage kids as well as adults, and would be more “conversational” with God. For me, reflection is a look inward and upward. I couldn’t find one I liked, so I made this one.
Here’s also the google doc version – feel free to copy and personalize this. By the way, I think this template would work during any time of the year. It is meant as a broader guide – annual, or maybe quarterly. Don’t be shy to do this in March or July or whenever. It’s never too late to take some time for yourself to reflect more deeply.
UPDATE January 2026: I also created a slightly shorter version with a new section that helps all of us be thoughtful about our inner dialogue. Click here for that version. It’s given my family common language and safety to talk our inner worlds in a more tangible way!
One question I have for you: what are the best questions you ask yourself during times of reflection that have been especially helpful? Share them below as I’m learning that the quality of the questions in my life determine so much of the quality of my life.
Here’s a special reflection guide for entrepreneurs and people in transition