My partner and I are expecting our first child in December (very excited!). In preparing for leave time, I have made a concerted effort to ensure there is support for my area while away. As I prepared information for colleagues, I was surprised with the depth and breadth of projects I support. I share this not to promote myself, but to illustrate the power of taking stock of your efforts.

REFLECTION BRINGS PERSPECTIVE.

It gives pause and encourages examining your reality from a different lens. Even if it’s still your own point of view, thinking beyond the given project, area, or term can offer insight or consideration you previously did not consider. Perspective gained from reflection can also illustrate how a project or area relates to a bigger picture at the institution.

REFLECTION ALSO GRANTS OPPORTUNITY FOR RECOGNITION.

Unless it’s a major milestone or goal, I do not do the best job acknowledging progress or small wins. Despite my infrequent self-practice, I promote reflection and recognition with my colleagues. Letting others know they’ve done a great job or are appreciated for their contributions can go a long way. All perspectives are unique to the individual, making your shared thoughts insightful for others. I’ve benefited from a new(er) supervisor countering my comments of having room to grow by acknowledging how far we’ve come.

There is much more I could be doing by means of reflection in order to support myself or others. I intend to adopt more frequent and intentional reflection periods in my work during term breaks. I can utilize built-in opportunities like cross-training, on-boarding, and performance reviews as milestones to share feedback with peers. Consider talking to colleagues about their reflection practices and opportunities. Reflect on how you might reinforce or expand good practice here for your own sake.

(Originally published on Student Affairs Collective)