"One of the great challenges for the knowledge worker of the future is finding the time to think – in a world that is screaming at you to act". Marshall Goldsmith

As we know, reflection is a necessary step in the design of formal learning interventions, but the fact that it is often overlooked in a leader’s day-to-day practice means that we are missing out on the opportunity to learn on the job.

We keep moving. We push through. We don’t stop to reflect. We stay in jobs that are (literally) killing us, relationships that zap our energy, circumstances that leave us stressed, unhappy, frustrated and tired.

We keep running on the treadmill of life thinking we don’t have time to waste. So we keep moving in order to keep up. But too often, we just crash and burn. That’s because the only way to keep up with the pace of life is to STOP. To hop off the treadmill. To reflect on what’s working and what’s not. To identify what to keep and what needs to change.

As an Executive Coach I’ve heard many reasons over the years. People feel they don’t have time and there is just too much else on their plate. Or sometimes they don’t have the energy. They are tired and feel like it’s just one more thing to do. On other occasion they don’t realize its significance and how it can positively transform their life. Lastly, it’s just too hard.

Many of my clients feel they don’t know where to start or what to consider. This is often why people hire a Coach. It could be a Business coach ( to reflect on the business as a whole), it could be a Transition Coach or a life coach for those deeper emotional reflections. With the help of a coach the client is able to block time and space they aren’t giving themselves. The coach then asks the right questions and co-creates a space for the answers.

The importance of Self – Reflection

Many people find doing self-reflection difficult. They don’t understand why they need it, or what may be the benefits if they reflected. Here are some of the benefits of self-reflection that I have experienced myself over the years:

Improves Self-Awareness

It is essential to understand oneself at a deeper level. Taking time for self-reflection about life leads to greater self-awareness which in turn leads to self-improvement. In addition, having a strong sense of self, improves confidence and level of self-esteem.

Provides Perspective

Self-reflection allows one to understand and see things from a different point of view. When one takes a step back from a situation, new understandings are gained. One is able to see the whole picture, not just the piece of the puzzle. Ultimately, You become more open minded.

Enables you to Respond, Not React

Ever say or do something in the moment that you wish you could take back? When you react, you’re not thinking about the potential ramifications of your actions. However, when you spend time to reflect on a situation, you can respond more thoughtfully and change your behaviour for next time.

Facilitates a Deeper Level of Learning

Many studies share the common conclusion that self-reflection facilitates a deeper level of learning and understanding. It’s a critical part of the education process. I’ve found this to be true in my own work as a Transition Coach. When people are given time to reflect, digest and integrate, they are better able to make abstract connections, as well as retain and recall information. In fact, whenever I’m coaching and the client has arrived at a new realization or understanding, I provide time for self- reflection about how the issue is important for them or what they may be learning for the realization. Even 5 minutes to integrate and think about what you’ve learned can make a critical difference.

Improve Confidence

When you reflect, you gain a better understanding of what’s working and what’s not. This in turn, allows you to make better decisions and change your actions. Each time you improve, it helps build your confidence with increased knowledge and perspective.

Challenge Your Assumptions

What one believes to be true is not always the truth. One of the best ways to tackle a limiting belief is to step back and debate the validity of that belief. Self-reflection allows us to challenge beliefs and assumptions that are getting in the way.

How to Self-Reflect:

I like to keep the process fairly simple, while there are many ways to Self-Reflect here is the Gibbs Reflective Cycle that I have used myself and have been told by clients that it is easy to use and effective:

Finally, make reflection a habit and you will always have the time for it. It’s a simple way of taking charge of your own development and learning.