YearCompass: A Free Annual Reflection Booklet Used by Over 1 Million People
by YearCompass Team
YearCompass is a free, beautifully designed booklet that guides you through a comprehensive year-end reflection and planning process. Created in 2012 by a small team in Hungary, it has since been downloaded by over a million people worldwide and translated into more than 50 languages by volunteers.
Unlike digital tools or complex frameworks, YearCompass embraces the simplicity of pen and paper. The booklet is designed to be printed, filled out by hand, and completed in a single focused session or spread across a few days during the transition between years.
What is YearCompass?
YearCompass is a structured reflection workbook that takes you through two main phases: closing your current year and planning your next year. The booklet contains carefully crafted questions and prompts that help you examine different areas of your life—from personal growth and relationships to career and health.
The design philosophy behind YearCompass emphasizes accessibility and universality. It's intentionally non-denominational, culturally neutral, and free from commercial interests. The team behind it believes that everyone deserves access to quality reflection tools, regardless of their financial situation or location.
How to Use YearCompass
- 1
Download and print the free PDF booklet from yearcompass.com (available in 50+ languages)
- 2
Set aside 2-3 hours of uninterrupted time, ideally during the last week of December or first week of January
- 3
Work through Part 1: The Past Year — Review your year month by month, identify highlights and lowlights, and reflect on what you learned
- 4
Complete Part 2: The Year Ahead — Set intentions, define your focus areas, and create actionable plans for the coming year
- 5
Store your completed booklet somewhere safe to review throughout the year and compare with next year's reflection
Who is YearCompass Best For?
- First-time reflectors who want a guided, structured approach to year-end review
- Pen-and-paper enthusiasts who prefer analog tools over digital apps
- Budget-conscious individuals looking for a high-quality free resource
- Non-English speakers who need reflection tools in their native language
- Anyone seeking a comprehensive review that covers all major life areas
Key Features
Completely Free
No cost, no email required, no upsells. Just download and print.
50+ Languages
Volunteer translators have made YearCompass accessible to people worldwide.
Thoughtful Design
Clean, minimal aesthetic that's pleasant to write in and easy to navigate.
Two-Part Structure
Balanced approach covering both reflection (past) and planning (future).
Time-Tested
Refined over 12+ years based on feedback from millions of users.
Print-Friendly
Optimized for home printing with options for different paper sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete YearCompass?
Most people complete YearCompass in 2-3 hours. You can do it in one sitting or spread it across multiple sessions. The booklet is designed to be thorough but not overwhelming.
Is YearCompass really free?
Yes, YearCompass is completely free. There's no email signup required, no premium version, and no hidden costs. The project is supported by optional donations from users who find value in it.
What languages is YearCompass available in?
YearCompass is available in over 50 languages, including Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and many more. All translations are done by volunteers.
Can I use YearCompass digitally instead of printing it?
While YearCompass is designed for pen and paper, you can fill it out digitally using a PDF editor or tablet with a stylus. However, many users find the analog experience more reflective and meaningful.
When is the best time to complete YearCompass?
The ideal time is during the last week of December or the first week of January—the transition period between years. However, you can use it anytime you want to reflect and reset.
How is YearCompass different from other annual review tools?
YearCompass stands out for being completely free, available in 50+ languages, and designed specifically for pen-and-paper use. It takes a balanced approach covering both reflection and planning, without requiring any apps or subscriptions.
Ready to Start Your Reflection?
Download YearCompass for free and begin your year-end reflection journey today.