A 2024 Year-End Reflection Exercise

December often seems filled with parties, shopping, work deadlines, and more. Yet, by slowing down and taking time to reflect on the past year, we can approach holiday events with gratitude and purpose. Then, when January arrives, we will be prepared for a fresh start.

Mars stations retrograde on December 6th, and Mercury remains in retrograde throughout the rest of 2024. Coupled with the influences of Saturn and Pluto, this creates an ideal setting for reflection and a year-end self-evaluation. How can you achieve this? Use these prompts from my monthly New and Full Moon Journal Exercises to discover how this year has contributed to your growth.

Reflect on each month to uncover the insights you've gained. This activity will require 30 to 90 minutes to finish. Meditating or going for a walk beforehand can be beneficial.

January - You had the chance to break old patterns, create new behaviors, and insert accountability steps.

Reflection question: What old pattern did you set out to change and how were you planning on keeping yourself accountable?

February - Tension points were exposed between you, your genuine expression of self, and self-judgment.

Reflection questions: How did you show up authentically that month? When did your inner critic show up and how did you deal with it?

March - Astrology sees the sign of Aries as a fresh start to the zodiac wheel of life. This was a month for assertiveness and independence.

Reflection questions: Did you define your wants and needs? Have they changed since March?

April - This month may have felt more sensitive. Misunderstandings required you to explore the true intentions behind what was happening.

Reflection questions: Did you discover who was in your trusted circle during the month of April? Are these still the same people in your circle today?

May - Your long-standing beliefs may have been challenged and it was time to ask yourself some big questions.

Reflection questions: How did your perspective change during this month? How did your communication change?

June - Challenges in communication may have appeared this month. Practical steps had to be taken along with remembering to nurture yourself.

Reflection questions: At the half way part of the year, how did you take time to nourish yourself? What goals did you set for the last 6 months of 2024?

July - Restructuring your priorities and balancing home and work life was front and center this month.

Reflection questions: What needed repair or fixing during this time? How did you balance your obligations with the need for leisurely connections?

August - Sudden changes helped you embrace the unknown. Inner wisdom was illuminated.

Reflection questions: How did you handle the unknown and spontaneity of this month? What inner knowing was revealed during this time?

September - Simplification was called for during this month so you could have the energy needed for future dreams.

Reflection questions: Where did you put your effort? Have you seen positive results from your actions so far?

October - An old pattern from 12 months ago was ending. A fresh approach to relationships was taken (intimate, friendships, and self included).

Reflection questions: What pattern did you leave behind? Have you remembered to include your needs in every relationship?

November - Hidden desires may have been revealed. Decisions had to be made about the willingness to obtain what you want. This month's happenings are still playing out.

Reflection questions: What actions are you willing to take for your future goals? What are the worries that pull you away from your goals?

December - You may be longing for adventure and a fresh start. But before you go into the new year, take this time to write out what wisdom you gained from 2024, what changes would you like to see, and then define your focus for the long term.

After completing the exercise, jot down at least three important insights you wish to remember. These will be helpful when you create your intentions for 2025.

I specialize in using astrology for personal development. Subscribe to my weekly newsletters to get tips, journal prompts, and insights that translate these ancient practices for modern use. For more details or to send me your astrology questions, visit my website.