By Barbara Pierce
We’ve asked James Davis, executive director, Samaritan Counseling Center of the Mohawk Valley, to share what he thought we should ask ourselves at the start of 2026 to make it our best year yet. The nonprofit Samaritan Counseling Center is a leading provider of counseling in the area, with offices in Utica, Rome and Herkimer.
By asking yourself certain questions, you’ll figure out how to make changes that can boost your happiness and well-being in 2026, according to Davis.
1. What experiences good or difficult served you over the past year? This is the first question Davis suggests you consider. Think about the significant events, challenges, successes or changes you have had in the past year, both good or bad. You might want to jot them down; make a list you can look at as you consider these questions.
2. “What did these experiences teach you?” Davis asked. What lessons did you learn? Did you gain a new way of looking at things? Or learn a new skill? Research has found that up to 70% of people learn from difficult times. They may find a deeper sense of self or purpose, a greater appreciation for life and loved ones or an increased capacity for empathy.
3. “What energizes you? What drains you?” Davis suggests you consider the significant experiences you had during the past year, which ones gave you a sense of energy, enthusiasm and motivation? The experiences that made you feel alive, excited and eager. Which of your experiences left you drained, bored or tired and feeling like you don’t want to repeat those kinds of experiences? Identifying what energizes you can help you find your passions and focus your energy on activities that are fulfilling and motivating.
4. “What am I proud of that I didn’t give myself enough credit for?” We often focus on what we did wrong. Davis advises that you give yourself a break and instead reflect on those things you did that you’re proud of. Filter in more of what went right for you. The mistakes were learning experiences. Focus on what you learned from them and don’t beat yourself up over them. Instead, celebrate your wins.
5. “When did I feel most aligned with my values? When did I feel out of alignment with my values?” is another way Davis suggests we assess our past year. To be in sync with your values means your actions, decisions and priorities reflect what you believe is most important in life. When you feel aligned with your values, you have a clear sense of why you are doing things. You feel more grounded and sure of yourself, even as you face challenges.
6. “What do I want my life to feel like next year? Not just look like?” To answer this, reflect on what is currently missing in your career, your relationships, your health, hobbies, etc. What do you want more of? After you’ve answered that, brainstorm what actions you could take to start to get those missing things in your life. Identify the small steps you will need to take to get there.
A tip about making those resolutions so it’s easier to achieve them: Make your goals specific, measurable and time limited, i.e. “I’ll walk five miles without stopping by June 1.”