Are you scared to listen to yourself?
With today’s hyperconnectivity and social expectations, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly juggling information overload and endless to-dos.
But what if I told you that the secret ingredient of progress, clarity, and answers can be found in the simple practice of reflection?
I know what you're thinking...
There aren't enough hours in the day to get stuff done.
How am I supposed to find time to slow down?
That’s some privileged shit.
A luxury I can’t afford.
Plus, don't leave me alone with the voices in my head! 😫
I get it. I’ve been there...
Because I spent most of my life externally focused and hiding from myself, I fixated on other people’s successes, kept myself busy always, and was convinced that slowing down to go inward would be a waste of time.
Reflection has transformed my decision-making and outlook on life.
In 2014, after a visit to the motherland with my mom, I became severely depressed. Seeing the conditions she grew up in and hearing her speak about the traumas she experienced completely shattered my sense of purpose. My childhood trauma began to resurface.
In 2015, I discovered meditation and joined a group that practiced on the 3rd floor of a 5th Ave space. We sat in silence with our thoughts for an hour every other day, with the chaotic yet reassuring sounds of the city directly below us.
It wasn't easy, but this was when I first began to listen to and trust myself.
Months later, I got engaged, accepted a dream job offer at ClassPass, an early-stage wellness tech startup, and began my 11-year and going journey with therapy.
My reflective practice was reinforced in 2020 when I left my 15-year corporate career and became a stay-at-home parent during the pandemic when I was forced to slow down, be present with a 4-month-old and 2.5-year-old, and be with my thoughts.
Months later, we moved out of NYC, drove our family across the country, made an offer after seeing 4 houses in 3 days, bought our first home, and launched Wildlight.
Today, I can honestly say that I’ve never felt this much clarity, purpose, and joy. ✨
Do I still have shitty, uncertain days where I’m questioning everything? 100000%
But I have the tools to pull myself out of the pits of darkness, create momentum, and get back on track much quicker.
Inner work has been life-changing for me and has become the foundation of the work I do with my coaching clients.
Here are some things that have come up for my amazing clients in the past weeks:
✨“I never even considered working in the health and wellness tech industry until I worked with you and reflected on what I truly care about. It blends my passions with my skills. It’s clear to me now, and I feel super motivated.”
✨“Before having you as my coach, I never felt confident enough to speak up for myself at work because I was always moving quickly. Slowing down and learning to trust myself has been a game changer.”
✨“I didn’t think I could ever be an entrepreneur, but doing your reflection prompts and rewriting my limiting beliefs have made it clear that I DO have the skills and connections to make it happen.”
Why reflection matters and how to incorporate it into your life.
Research in psychology and neuroscience shows the importance of reflection for personal growth and well-being. People who practice regularly often have more self-awareness and higher emotional intelligence, leading them to better decision-making,
Reflection isn’t just about journaling and thinking about your past. It’s about pausing, unplugging from social expectations, tuning in to yourself, and allowing our thoughts to settle. It’s intentionally making room for inner work, pausing from the noise, chaos, and demands of daily life.
This practice can be transformative, especially for high-achieving women professionals, busy parents, and first/second-generation immigrants with never-ending familial duties and responsibilities.
I see you and all that you do. 🫶
It doesn’t have to be complicated. Don’t overthink it. It can be as simple as setting aside 5 minutes daily to journal, listen to a quick guided meditation, say a few affirmations out loud, or sit silently for a few minutes.
If you do this consistently for a few weeks, I KNOW you’ll discover new insights, find clearer solutions to your challenges, and form a deeper connection with yourself and the people around you.
What do you think? Are you down to try it out?!
DM me on LinkedIn or Instagram, and let me know what you’ll commit to trying. I'll be happy to be your email accountability buddy for the next couple of weeks.
-Carolyn
