Reflection isn't easy; isn't practised and probably isn't encouraged enough in today’s society.

How often do we ignore signals which our body and mind triggers – ignorant to the prospect of wondering what and why you and others reacted a certain way?

How many ‘blips’ have you had on your life’s radar or grenades thrown in your direction? Some people have had their fair share, whereas others cruise along. Big or small, ignoring or suppressing moments which are disguised opportunities to ‘make a difference’ are a leaders’ responsibility to target.

Tomorrow is ANZAC Day, a public holiday gazetted in Australia – a day to reflect on the events in the past (and current) of the people who protected us, fought for our rights and many who died in doing so or worse, maimed. Whether you believe in war or not – the ability to stop and reflect allows you to do three things:

1. Review how and what you think about a matter, maybe what you learnt allowing you to form a view and enable you to share some wisdom

2. Identify how you feel about something and determine if that’s a positive or negative experience – one which should or shouldn’t be experimented with and discussed with those involved

3. Decide how you might want to alter, change or reconstruct how you approach these matters/events in the future.

I read a great leadership article that quoted “Reflection is what links our performance to our potential”. Reflection disrupts the status quo, shakes us up and hopefully pushes you to be more self-aware of your behaviours and of course, your Leadership. (Thank you Col. Eric Kail, who wrote a six part series on Leadership Character – search it out.)

As our ANZAC folk reflect on their past, take time out (try a ten minute walk on your own) to reflect on your past – whether that was five years ago or the events of your 'yesterday'. You might be surprised what you rediscover.