Reflection is often misunderstood.Many of us associate it with self-judgment, pressure to fix what went wrong, or the feeling that we need to “figure everything out” before moving forward. But true reflection isn’tabout diagnosing, problem-solving, or judging yourself. It’s about awareness and understanding.In this episode of RenewHer, we explore reflection through a gentle neuroscience lens — what reflection really is, what it isn’t, and what’s actually happening in your brain when you pause to look back… and when you look ahead.You’ll learn how reflection engages key areas of the brain involved in memory, insight, emotional processing, and self-awareness — including the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, limbic system, and default mode network. When practiced with curiosity instead of judgment, reflection becomes a powerful neurological tool for clarity, calm, and intentional decision-making.Most of this episode is an invitation. An invitation to look back and look forward.I guide you through simple past- and future-focused reflection prompts — not to analyze your life or force answers, but to notice what mattered, what feels complete, and what you may want to carry forward into the next chapter.No journaling required, unless you choose to.No pressure for answers.Just space to pause, notice, and listen.Whether you reflect regularly or tend to avoid it altogether, this episode offers a grounded, compassionate approach that works with your brain — not against it.And remember — success starts with your brain. Renew your brain. Renew your life. Past Reflection Questions: Looking Back As you reflect on the past year, remember: these questions are invitations to notice, not to judge.1. What are three things you’re grateful for this year?2. What achievements — big or small — are you proud of this year?3. What did this year teach you about yourself?4. What challenges taught you the most? And what did they teach you?5. Which relationships brought you energy and joy this year — and which relationships drained your energy or need attention?6. Looking back, what’s one thing you wanted to do but didn’t — and what might have gotten in the way? Future Reflection Questions: Looking Ahead Future reflection isn’t about predicting the future — it’s about helping your brain prepare for what’s next with intention.1. As you think about the year ahead, how do you want to feel more often?2. What do you want to carry forward into the next year?3. What do you want to protect more intentionally in the year ahead — your energy, time, health, or peace?4. What challenges might you face, and how can you prepare for them?5. What’s one bold step you can take early in the year?6. As you look ahead, what’s one thing you really want to do?00:00 Introduction to Reflection and RenewHer Podcast 00:45 Understanding Reflection: A Neuroscience Perspective 03:38 The Brain's Role in Reflection 05:10 Reflecting on the Past Year: Prompts and Insights 10:48 Future Reflection: Planning and Anticipating the Year Ahead 16:10 Conclusion 16:53 What's AheadSubscribe to my newsletter Mind Matters. Schedule a free Discovery Session with me. Check out my website.
