We do not learn from experience—we learn from reflecting on experience.

-John Dewey

The last few days of each year are a natural time to reflect on the previous 12 months. Since trust is foundational to our health and success, let’s take this opportunity to assess how trustworthy we’ve been for the people who matter most to us.

To that end, here are 12 prompts to help you find meaningful moments from the past year to reflect on. They are grouped by the Four Elements of Trustworthiness:  Authenticity, Benevolence, Competence, and Dependability.

You can use any or all of the questions to find stories from your own life to reflect on. For the stories you find, let these questions guide your reflection:

• What effect did this have on my relationships?
• What was I proud of in this story?
• What will I do differently in the future?

Story Prompts:

In the past year, when did you…

… stand up for your values?

… overestimate yourself?

… underestimate yourself?

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… see a need before you were asked?

… sacrifice something to help someone in need?

… choose comfort over caring for others?

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… try something new, outside of your comfort zone?

… learn something new in order to be more effective?

… try to make do with outdated knowledge/skills?

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… make and keep a promise?

… develop a good habit?

… fail to keep a promise?

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Without reflection, there is no growth. We owe it to ourselves and those we love to build a substantial life—one that is worthy of trust.

Update: 23% First Draft Complete

Still at 23%. I’m taking advantage of the holidays to research literary agents, hone my proposal, and plan my queries.