Rearview Mirror vs. Windshield: A Mindful Shift in Perspective

This week, I want to invite you into a brief moment of reflection—a mindset shift that could reshape how you think about your past, your present, and what’s ahead.

I first shared this concept during one of my Mindfulness Mondays episodes on Instagram (@hoopersworkshop), and it’s a theme worth revisiting:
Rearview Mirror vs. Windshield.

Let’s break it down.

The Rearview Mirror: Necessary, but Not a Destination

Think about how much time we spend mentally looking in the rearview mirror.

Sure, it’s important. We reflect. We analyze. We make sense of our experiences and decisions. Looking back helps us understand how we got here.

But here’s the danger: when reflection turns into rumination, we get stuck.
And when we’re in a season of struggle, that rearview mirror becomes a trap.

We begin looping on thoughts like:

• “I should’ve done it differently.”
• “I wish I had known better.”
• “That wasn’t fair.”

This loop pulls us into victim mentality—and once we’re there, it’s hard to grow, move forward, or even see possibility.

 The Windshield: The Path Forward

Now picture the windshield.

It’s clear. It’s wide. It’s what gives you vision.
It’s where your eyes belong if you want to move forward.

When we focus through the windshield, we begin to navigate life more intentionally.
We anticipate roadblocks. We spot detours earlier. We respond, not react.

Yes, there will be potholes, speed bumps, and unexpected obstacles. That’s life.
But when your eyes are forward, and you’re only glancing at the mirror behind you, you regain control. You get back on track faster.

A Simple Reminder

Even from a design standpoint, the rearview mirror is tiny compared to the windshield. That’s not an accident.

It’s a visual metaphor:

Spend a little time looking back—but give your energy and focus to what’s ahead.

Final Reflection

So, this week, ask yourself:

• Am I driving with my eyes in the mirror?
• Or am I looking forward through the windshield—ready to move, grow, and adjust?

Let the mirror remind you.
Let the windshield guide you.

Thank you for stopping by and being CURIOUS this week. Being curious is WHERE GROWTH HAPPENS!