Life moves fast. Between work deadlines, private responsibilities, and personal goals, the days can blur together. Before you know it, Friday (or Sunday evening) rolls around, and you’re left wondering: What did I actually accomplish this week?
This simple question, “What did you get done this week?” isn’t just a casual thought—it’s a powerful tool for growth, productivity, and self-awareness. Here’s why you should make it a weekly ritual and how to use it effectively.
Why Weekly Reflection Matters
- Celebrate Wins, Big or Small
Life isn’t only about monumental achievements. Did you finally declutter that corner of your home, complete a work task ahead of schedule, or finally finish reading that book you’ve been chipping away at? Celebrate it! Recognizing accomplishments fuels motivation and helps build momentum for the week ahead. - Identify Areas for Improvement
Reflection isn’t just about the wins; it’s also a chance to assess challenges. Maybe you procrastinated on a key task or felt overwhelmed juggling commitments. Acknowledging these moments helps you identify patterns and improve your approach moving forward. - Stay Aligned with Your Goals
Weekly reflection keeps you grounded. It’s a chance to ask yourself: Are my actions aligned with my long-term goals? If not, you can recalibrate your priorities for the upcoming week.
How to Create a Weekly Reflection Routine
- Set Aside Time
Pick a quiet moment at the end of each week. It could be Friday evening, Saturday morning, or Sunday night—whatever works best for you. The key is consistency. - Ask Yourself Key Questions
Start with:- What did I get done this week?
- What went well?
- What didn’t go as planned?
- What’s one thing I can improve next week?
- Write It Down
Keep a journal or use a digital note-taking app to record your reflections. Over time, these entries become a treasure trove of insights, showing your growth and progress. - Plan Ahead
Use what you’ve learned from your reflection to set realistic goals for the next week. Break larger tasks into smaller, actionable steps and prioritize them.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Weekly Reflections
- Be Honest With Yourself
It’s okay to admit when something didn’t go as planned. The goal isn’t to judge yourself—it’s to learn and grow. - Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
Every step forward counts, no matter how small. The act of trying is already an achievement. - Include Gratitude
Reflection isn’t just about productivity. Take a moment to appreciate the things that brought you joy this week, whether it was a great conversation, a good book, or simply a sunny day.
The Bigger Picture
Asking, “What did I get done this week?” isn’t just about ticking off to-dos. It’s about creating a mindful pause in your busy life to celebrate, learn, and plan. Over time, this habit fosters greater self-awareness, productivity, and a deeper sense of purpose.
So, before you dive into the weekend or start a new week, take a moment to reflect. You might be surprised at how much you’ve accomplished and how much more you can achieve with intentionality and focus.
Your turn: What did you get done this week? Share your wins, big or small, in the comments below!