"I Believe Introspection Might Be a Truly Critical Tool For a Happier Existence"

Milestones—birthdays, the turn of a year, and anniversaries such as this one—are a wonderful time to celebrate, and an equally apt moment for reflection. I believe introspection might be a truly critical tool for a happier existence. Taking out time to reflect on our feelings, experiences, and learnings can help make sense of the chaos around us. It’s the opposite of rushing through life without quite knowing where we are going. Some careful consideration offers perspective, leading the way to realisations about what we’re doing right and wrong. It can also be a catalyst for change, clarifying goals and plans for the future.

While mindfulness is great for your emotional state and inner workings, it can be extended to every part of your life—one study found that employees who spent 15 minutes per day, reflecting about lessons they had learned at work, performed 23% better than others. Another study, with commuters, found that those who thought about and planned for their day were happier, more productive, and less likely to burn out.

I don’t always find the time to stop and analyse (experts say daily reflection is ideal), but when I do, I think about my recent choices and reactions. I challenge any limiting beliefs or assumptions or thought processes. And I ask whether I am truly happy...and what I might need to do for more fulfilling personal growth.

While you soak in all the vibrant strokes, inspiration, and talented collaborators in this special-edition issue, I’d like to encourage you to embrace the art of reflection...and I hope it changes your life in wondrous ways.