It’s time for reflection

Almost two-thirds of us take selfies every week, yet more than two-fifths haven’t given a thought to our life goals.

The Open University hopes to encourage us to self-reflect and take control of our careers, rather than focus on surface level beauty.

It is taking a huge Reflection Cube on tour – a 360-degree mirror experience inside and out – around the country. There will be an OU student services team on hand to talk to people who feel that studying could help them achieve their ambitions.

Try these five simple steps for self-reflection on your career:

Define yourself and how you feel about your situation. Ask yourself the following questions: How do I see myself now? What makes me happy? What motivates me? Do I feel fulfilled? Is there something else I wish I was doing?

Learn by looking at your career over time Plot out your career path on paper, marking any high points above the line and low points below

Identify your skills, qualities and abilities Think about the skills you’ve developed. Do you have the skills to change careers? If not, how will you gain these skills?

Clarify your goals and plan for the future Make a list of goals and factors that may help or hinder you. Think about careers or topics you like and research entry requirements and skills you may need.

Recognise your next steps and find info and support Write down your ultimate longterm goal and take the first steps towards achieving it.

Find out about the Reflection Cube at open.ac.uk/courses/ choose/reflect