A time for self-reflection

The idea of restarting or ‘fixing’ can be a mindset that often accompanies the beginning of the year, especially during the month of January. January is acknowledged as the first month of the Gregorian calendar and the name January in Latin comes from the word ‘Janus’, the god of new beginnings and transitions. A person can become inundated and over exposed with the idea of change in the New Year. For some, this message can be overwhelming, while for others it is a time to set goals and reevaluate this moment in time.  

We encourage going into this New Year by taking a moment to offer some self-reflection. Checking- in with ourselves can be a way of gracefully taking a moment to stop, observe and reflect how you are in this moment. It is easy to become overwhelmed with the idea of doing more, not being enough or having to be better than we are. Instead, we encourage you to self-reflect on the past year with little judgement. Accepting where you are in this moment of time and where you want to be going without judgement can create an opportunity to reset. Leading with kindness and reconnecting with ourselves can be beneficial for our mental health.  

Many military families experience change and challenges at various times of the year depending upon where they identify in the posting cycle.  Recognizing that each family is unique and the range of emotions that can be associated with the military lifestyle challenges can vary for each family member. Acknowledging that although society may be preparing for a new year, military families may be coming to an end of a posting or relocation and or preparing for one. Some families experience a new ‘experience’ at different times of the year, which can bring about feelings of excitement, uncertainty, fear and disappointment.  

At Military Family Services in the NCR, there are program specialists and mental health providers that can support your family during this journey and wherever you identify in this cycle. We offer programs support and services that acknowledge the various strengths and struggles that military families can experience.