It’s that time of the year again where we reflect on the year that was and contemplate the next. It is also the perfect time to create or update your vision board. But before we jump in, there are a few things to consider.

When imagining more of the life we want, we often rush to set goals or clarify what we do not want. This makes sense, except that we often fail to identify patterns that repeat cycles, or to go within and clarify who we really are, what we really want and how we really want to feel.

Reflect on your boundaries. Sometimes, you must take on others’ responsibilities, but in other cases you must ask yourself: are you doing it out of habit or to keep the peace? Navigating boundaries is a process – it doesn’t always go swimmingly, but there are resources to help, brilliant books, podcasts and therapists too.

Consider if your assistance slows down someone else’s empowerment. Do you help because you are scared to pursue your dreams, or because you’re lonely, or it’s the only role you’ve known? Does being a martyr make you feel good? Be honest with yourself.