How Can You Make Time for Self-Reflection in Your Daily Routine?

“In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of tasks and responsibilities, leaving little room for self-reflection. However, taking a step back and dedicating time to introspect can prove to be incredibly beneficial for your overall well-being and personal growth. Begin your day by setting aside a few moments for yourself. This could be through meditation, stretching, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in peace. By starting your day with intention, you lay the foundation for a more mindful and reflective day ahead. Throughout the day, there are often pockets of idle time that can be utilized for self-reflection. Instead of mindlessly scrolling through social media during your commute or waiting in line, take this time to reflect on your thoughts and emotions. Keeping a journal can be a powerful tool for self-reflection. Writing can help you organize your thoughts, gain insights into your emotions, and track your personal growth journey over time. Step outside, go for a walk in nature, and allow your mind to wander freely. The tranquility of nature can provide a peaceful backdrop for deep introspection. Remember, self-reflection is not a luxury but a necessity for personal growth and overall well-being. So, take a step back, pause, and embrace the transformative power of self-reflection in your daily life.”

10 September 2024

The silence continued and there wasn’t any response. Alas, I can feel a storm coming but yet it wasn’t my storm and I should not step in at this moment…

Parenting is not easy, especially if it’s considered as “good” parenting. Why did I put it in “”? It’s because all these definitions are based on society’s standard, a.k.a. the majority. Regardless, there are definitely some parenting methods which you will never ever considered it as good.

I won’t say that I’m a good parent but I tried to be one. I tried as much as possible to understand what my children are thinking. I talked to them, played with them, helped them as much as possible in the direction that they want to go, so long it’s a positive one (based on my values). And then all these changes as they grow.

It’s weird at how I can always so easily guide others on how they should do certain things but when I look at the hub, my tongue went tied. I knew exactly what he should or should not do and yet I simply can’t bring myself to tell him. Maybe it’s because my advice has always fell on deaf ears, or that the response was just too negative. I only hope that someday, he will finally realise that his children, are not that young anymore.

This morning, he scolded the boy for drinking cold drinks again and then something else too. And the atmosphere became bad when the dad said that he will take the cane and cane him if he dares to drink again. And when asked for a response, the boy kept quiet. Tears in his eyes but he just kept quiet even if the dad was in a rage. That was when I stepped in. Maybe I shouldn’t but I can foresee how it will end if I did not - the dad will take the cane immediately and cane him, which he will cry and yell. Then the children will all be late for school. The dad will then feel guilty for caning him over this. The boy won’t be able to handle his emotion so most likely will cause trouble in school, which means there’s a high chance he will scribble in his Chinese spelling. Then the teacher will call me, and so on and so forth. Will it be a good day? No, and thus I stepped in.

Suddenly, I felt like I’m Dr Strange. Always trying to foresee all the different possible scenarios, and chose the one with the least damage. Is that what’s happening in your life too?

P/S: I usually have my quiet time while I’m having my breakfast after the kids go to school, and before I start my work.