In general,
reflection is understood as the process of learning through and from experience
towards gaining new insights of self and/or practice. This often involves
examining assumptions of everyday practices. It also tends to involve the
individual practitioner in being self-aware and critically evaluating their own
responses to situations. The point is to recapture experiences and mull them
over critically in order to gain new understandings and improve future practices.

Reflection is
an important part of the human experience that differentiates us from other
living beings. It is fundamental to our growth and development, especially in
developing higher mental functions such as problem solving and decision-making
skills.

Reflection
requires several skills which can easily be developed.

• Self-awareness – an ability to pause, to pay
  attention to thoughts and feelings and to self-question non-judgementally.
  This will help you to become aware of your habitual ways of thinking and
  behaving in any given situation).
• Description – it is important to be able
  to describe / recall situations neutrally. These questions can help. What
  did I see and feel happening? What background factors played a role? What
  were the things under my control? How would other people involved describe
  me and the situation?
• Critical analysis – the ability to challenge your
  assumptions by asking yourself: Is what I am thinking about myself, others
  or the situation true? Where do I need to focus next?
• Review – an ability to pause and to
  ask: ‘What would I do differently next time and why? How exactly will
  I do it and how will that give me the outcome I want?’
• New learning and next steps – an ability to learn about
  yourself from experiences (your potential and areas for improvement)
  rather than seeing yourself or others as a failure.

Reflection can
be a very empowering process. It can help you to make sense of your day; to
come to decisions, to set a course of action; to step away from your habitual
way of doing and thinking and discover new freedoms and opportunities.

As a leader, we
need all the learning we can get – and reflection is the most powerful
opportunity we have. Applying these ideas will make you more effective,
productive, and successful in all areas of your life.

So, what have
you learned today?