Recently, the New York Times had an article about seven reflection questions to ask yourself that might help you have a happier new year in 2026. I enjoyed these -- they were good food for thought.
When did you feel the most joyful and carefree?
Being at the lake always makes me feel more joyful and carefree. There is usually no schedule and you can't beat the environment!
And painting is joyful too. (So is being with friends, but that falls into another category here!)
What gave you energy — and what drained it?
Health issues drained it, especially in the latter part of the year when it seemed to be one thing after another. What gave me energy was relationships with Rick and with friends.
And of course, our kids and grands -- but there isn't nearly enough time with them! (And sometimes that drains the energy too -- but in a good way!)
Life is always better when connecting, even if it is only on the phone. These are people whose back I have and who have mine. We lift each other. We support, we energize. I'm pretty optimistic most of the time, though the this year has been a bit of a challenge. But I do think that helps get me through. Whether they are blog friends or in-person people, I value them all and yes, they do give me energy.
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| Just some of my "tribe" -- top: Longtime friend Suzanne; bloggers Maya and Lisa; art pal and sister from another mother, Kate; retiree lunches; couples pals Mark and Jan; Cork Poppers; my deep conversation team, Susie and Jane |
I also feel better when I delve into a good story. It might be a book or movie or television series.
What seemed impossible — but you did it anyway?
Nothing seemed impossible, though some things highly improbable and far off. But if I want it enough I am willing to work for it or wait to get it. Or, at least to get as close as I can.
What habit, if you did it more consistently, would have a positive effect on your life?
Continuing to eat lower carb and less sugar, which I've done with mixed results this year, truly helps. It's also a challenge! Walking more (feet permitting) is positive too. Surrounding myself with other environments lifts me, whether it is a walk at the lake or at the ditch. I'd say more travel too, but that may require resources that I don't have.
What did you try to control that was actually outside your control?
I tried to control my health. But some things have their own pace, their own speed and all I can do is follow orders and try to stay well. Stuff happens. I can get very down about it (and have been in a pretty dark place for the past few months) but I try very hard not to let myself stay down or to let (many) other people see me that way. I don't want to be defined by what I can't do or how I feel but who I am and what I can do.
I also can't control what is happening in our country except by voting, protesting and supporting causes or candidates who believe as I do. We do what we can -- but we can't do it all.
OK -- this sounds silly, but I also tried to control Lizzie -- and if you've ever tried to control a cat, you know it can't be done! But trying to get her to use her box better has been a challenge for a bit. She had a 100-percent summer using it at the lake and came home, back to the puppy pads. Now at home she's a 40-percenter. Progress. But I also have to remember, she's an older girl, a senior citizen. Things don't always work like they used to. Like me.
Is there anyone you need to forgive in 2026?
If it's anyone to forgive, it is myself for not honoring my tough days, not accepting limitations (or, to be more accurate, not telling people close to me when things are really bad and always trying to be the happy one.) I need to forgive myself for thinking I can be all things to all people and fix things when I know I can't. I also think that ultimately, there is nothing to forgive there, but still... I need to.
Do any of these resonate with you? Chime in with the comments! Or try it on your own blog!
Sharing with: Friday Face-Off / Weekend Traffic Jam
48 comments:
These are great questions to reflect on. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and feelings- now I need to explore mine. A great exercise to start off the New Year. Thanks.
Hi Jeanie, I enjoyed reading your responses. Lizzie....hmm, usually if a cat goes outside of their litter box it is because something is bothering them.
I worked in a pet supply store from 1987 to 1996 and after having ruled out any possible medical issues, a cat going outside of the litter box is psychological.
For example, if there is not enough privacy, sometimes a child or dog may be making them nervous, etc.
These were issues that were factors in the customers I talked to.
Sometimes they just don't like the brand of litter, and lastly, the litter box isn't clean enough.
None of these things may be describing your scenario, but I just wanted to mention that these were issues for my customers.
Love those pictures of you with your 'peeps.' There's so much joy in them! And Lizzie, so beautiful. I love cats and she looks like a snuggle bug. Does she often snuggle with you, or is she more aloof?
Being with my kids and grandkids makes me more carefree and joyful.
I love these questions especially the one about what gives you energy and what drained it. Being around people is what drains my energy, and being alone gives me energy.
How useful these kind of thoughts are. I think we, or at least I, do them far to seldom. I have read yours and it seems you have a realistic, but still positive, outlook on life. With that you come a long way. I will have a look at the questions and come back with a post.
As you say, health we can't often control, but we can do things that might improve it. That is what I have to do for 2026. Health problems can easily drag you down, but if we do our best, health might improve. Let's hope.
I have never been given to these bouts of introspection, Jeanie. I just get up each morning and the day unfolds. That’s about it for me.
Thanks for posting this. It’s interesting to read your answers, in addition to thinking about what mine would be. The state of the US is so discouraging these days. I hope I’m still allowed to vote by mail from Japan the next time.
You are so strong and inspirational! Thank you for sharing your experiences with us. I love your drawing. I hope you make more art. :). have a lovely Friday and a wonderful weekend.
Some things to ponder for sure. You have a great approach to life and it shows in your responses.
...Jeanie, I try to control things are in my control, which amounts to very few things.
Great Q and A Jeanie! You have a great life. Lovely art. -Christine cmlk79.blogspot.com
much of what you said about health I can relate to. I was diagnosed with IBM (inclusion body myositis) in April 2025. However, living with it since 2013/14. It's a muscle wasting disease similar to ALS slower progression. So, yes....I can relate.
These are super questions and I think you were right to make a post out of them. Now I need to think about them and do that. It would be fun and I like to get myself thinking. Sorry to read about all the health issues though. Thanks for sharing, and happy Friday. hugs-Erika
It is a good time of year to think and reflect.
I am very appreciative that Lacey never had a problem with her litter box.
Hello Jeanie,
Great questions and answers! You do have a great positive outlook, which is important. Spending time with family and friends is a happy time. Great collection of photos. Take care, enjoy your day and have a great weekend.
You are a warrior.Its important to not let what ails us define us.And you are great at that.So many friends..hobbies and a loving family.Xo
Hugs ~
bobbie
There's not a thing wrong with these questions, and they might serve as a nice nudge to people who never consider such things. Personally, I don't need to ponder them. I know the answers already.
Interesting questions. Me, I'm energized by being alone. I have friends and love them, and can tolerate limited interaction. I know they're friends because they get it!
Wonderful questions Jeanie. So sorry your health has been a struggle. Let’s hope this year brings you better health.
I love this guided reflection! I think many of have ourselves on the top of the list of people to forgive. You and I are both fiercely independent and asking for help is very very hard. It feels vulnerable, at least for me, to say "I can't do this on my own" but people like to feel needed. I know I like to help others so it's a gift to let someone else help us. And boy do we need help sometimes!
I am energized by time alone which is hard to come by! I love my shouldless days. I just had one on Wednesday. I went to an exercise class, got my haircut which is always therapeutic as my gal has cut my hair for, gosh, 15+ years, worked on a puzzle, watched a bit of tv, and read. It was just what I needed after a stressful period in December.
Great questions Jeanie...some I have really got to think a bit to be completely honest. Thanks for the 'food for thought'. hugs
These are wonderful reflection questions, Jeannie. So much of what we do lacks intention and thoughtfulness, and it's good to take time to really think. I wish you health in 2026, and peace in your country.
I hadn't thought of the fact that I also feel better when I can delve into a good story. Control and forgiveness can be a challenge at times. Just stepping out my door gives me energy, peaceful feelings. New adventures makes me smile.
Very good questions...and I think our outlooks on life are so similar...it is spooky. I've had three knee replacements a shoulder and arm injury...therapy was over 18 months for the first/second leg ops. Being limited in anyway is a trial. Like you, I fell into watercolor to get through it. We do the best we can, as we can. That's the lesson my knees have tought me. Grins and here's to a better year ahead. Healing takes time...now if only our nation could heal...Sandi
Ohhhh I love, love, love this post. What great questions and a positive outlook. Ohhh trying to control Lizzy might not work. LOL Cats have their own way of doing things. Thank you so much for all of the faces for FFO and have a lovely weekend.
These are really great questions to help anyone. Even though I have health issues, I still take things as they come, a day at a time. I’ve never been discouraged, but then one of my friends always tells me how positive I always am. But, with what just happened in Minneapolis, I’m really alarmed about our government in our country right now. When you think it can’t get worse, it does. P.S. Sadie has had a few mishaps in the house and I’m blaming it on her age. So we’re trying to let her out more. When that doesn’t work, we’ll get doggy diapers for her.
What great questions. I am with you on the last one. I get mad at myself for not feeling healthy like I did a couple of years ago. It is an embarrassment to me to have to ask for/accept help. I am better than I was early in the year but if I could control anything it would be health issues.
My father had a saying-"If you don't have your health you don't have anything". Now I understand it!
Here's to a good year for both of us!!! xo Diana
I guess this is the time of year for reflection..I think I don't do it much because I find it depressing..I'm a "leave well enough alone" type person most of the time..I hope your health will be less consuming in 2026..
Thanks for sharing with us, Jeanie. It was a wonderfully moving post. Here's to good health in 2026. And to democracy.
Interesting questions.... and the basis for an interesting post, too! Thanks for sharing these and your responses, too.
I sure feel you on the effect of health issues on the year. In many ways, it feels like we're still recovering from those. Spending time away from screens helps, but a certain amount of that is needed just for my job (and for keeping in touch with friends)! I keep thinking about learning embroidery; we'll see how that goes this year...
These really are such great thought provoking questions and I loved your answers!
Good questions! It's always good to take time to reflect on our lives.
Sounds like you're doing a lot of good things for yourself last year and this coming year. Here's to new adventures and fun.
Here's to a Happy, Healthier New Year. I'm not around much these days, must make a better effort! Enjoyed reading your replies and reflections. Debbie
This was a lovely read Jeanie. A great set of questions and it was enjoyable reading your answers and seeing all the lovely photos. I fell in love with your painting of Big Ben. Dear to my heart as you might imagine. Seeing you with your family and friends and furry family and friends, and all these other images, as well as other things you’re doing, absolutely delightful! Dealing with your health must have been dreadful but good to see you on the other side and I admire your positive attitude to everything in life. Forgiveness is a hard one. I forgive but I have a long memory, while realizing I am not perfect and make mistakes. Hopefully I am getting wiser about such things. As for what’s going on, I’m looking for better days next year for all of us. I will never forget this awfulness, and I would have to talk long and hard with the vicar about forgiveness on this one. But I'm living in hope that there will be better days, and we will be looking back at this and wondering how we got there. History will not forget. Wishing you and all your loved ones A Very Happy and Healthy New Year!
Cats can be finicky. Happy New Year! Janice
Great questions to ask ourselves. Last year was a major health challenge for you, hopefully this year will be a year of good health.
Great questions Jeanie. They certainly call for some deeper thought. I'm glad you are learning to roll with the punches of getting older and the health challenges that often come with it. It certainly challenges us but then I always think the alternative isn't so great. Here's to a wonderful 2026! May it be better than last year. xx
These are wonderful reflection questions, and your answers were so honest. I especially liked what you said about energy, connection, and forgiving yourself. Very relatable.
I enjoyed hearing the answers to all the questions, Jeanie. Got to know you a little better too. I can see why the lake is a special place for you, and makes you feel more carefree. I love that photo of the goose with her eggs. I'm so sorry to see the picture of you hooked up to all that. I hope this new year brings you much peace and joy and love, Jeanie. : )
Hi Jeanie! I love your Big Ben painting. Blessings!
Some excellent questions you shared here. Love your insight too. The Big Ben painting is a beauty.
This is a wonderfully reflective post with some interesting answers. Thanks for sharing this with us. Happy New Year! I hope 2026 is a good one for you.
what a perfectly stunning post, summing up so much, and I relate to you totally. Taking away the lovely Lake house, I feel you spoke for me in this post and so well too
thank you for sharing these hard questions
I believe all of us would benefit from self reflection and not expecting others to make us feel better.
Love, LeeAnna at not afraid of color
I saved these same questions from The NYT for a future blog post! Great minds...LOL
So many of your answers ring true for me as well.
That was a wonderful piece of self-reflection.
Love, Viola
Here is to a much healthier year Jeanie. Like you, some of my happiness times were at our lake house. Something about sitting the shade, reading a book brought so much peace and tranquility.
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