Reflection Cards - Small Universe

Choose a Category

Select a category to get a random thought-provoking question.

Daily Reflection

Reflection practice:

Read the question slowly and let it settle in your mind.
Notice your first response—what comes up immediately?
Go deeper: Ask yourself "Why do I feel this way?" and "What does this reveal about my values?"
Write it down: Journaling helps clarify thoughts and creates a record for future reflection.
Identify action: End with "What's one small step I can take based on this reflection?"

Reflection vs. Rumination

Reflection is curious and forward-moving—it asks "what" and "how" questions that lead to understanding and action. Rumination is repetitive and stuck—it asks "why" questions that keep you looping. If you find yourself going in circles, shift to concrete questions: "What's one thing I can do?" instead of "Why is this happening?"

About This Tool

Self-reflection is a powerful practice for personal growth and emotional intelligence. Research shows that regular reflection can improve decision-making, increase self-awareness, reduce rumination, and enhance overall well-being. Unlike rumination (which is repetitive and unproductive), reflection is intentional, structured, and forward-moving.

How to use this tool:

Daily practice: Set aside 5-10 minutes each day to reflect on one question. Write your thoughts in a journal.
Before decisions: Use relevant category questions to explore your values and priorities before making important choices.
Emotional processing: When feeling stuck or confused, reflection questions can help clarify what you're really feeling and why.
Growth tracking: Revisit the same questions periodically to see how your perspectives evolve over time.

Related resources: Learn more about the difference between rumination and self-reflection, and explore our essays on awareness and shifting focus.