Rumination vs. Reflection

I consider myself a reflection artist and have previously written about it. However, the other day, I discovered another term similar to reflection but on the negative side of the equation: rumination.

Here’s a definition—

Rumination is the act of repetitively and passively focusing on negative thoughts, feelings, and their causes and consequences, often without engaging in active problem-solving. It’s a common experience, but when it becomes excessive and prolonged, it can be a symptom of mental health conditions like depression or anxiety and can worsen existing conditions.

And the contrasting term made me realize that I sometimes fall into rumination when I think I’m reflecting. Naming it was pretty helpful for me to detect, minimize, or avoid it in my reflective practice.

Here are a sampling of my previous articles on Reflection—

• https://www.agile-moose.com/blog/2020/7/17/the-power-of-personal-reflection

• https://www.agile-moose.com/blog/2021/6/13/agile-inspiration-from-the-strangest-of-places

• https://www.agile-moose.com/blog/2022/7/3/the-power-of-reflection

• https://www.agile-moose.com/blog/2023/11/11/my-coaching-journey

• https://www.agile-moose.com/blog/2024/1/22/reflections-for-agile-coaches

Stay agile, my friends,

Bob.

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