It’s hard to believe that the end of 2020 is finally here. By any standards, it’s been a challenging year. The pandemic and the resulting tragic losses, catastrophic weather, social and political unrest and the economic downturn impacted just about everyone on the planet. With all of the sad events of the year, it’s easy to dwell on what went wrong. But, what if we choose to focus on the things that went well instead?
While we lost a lot of people (famous and unknown), those losses gave us a new respect for the people that are remaining. We are truly survivors through it all! That spirit of survival should be celebrated as we approach the new year! Here are a few things to consider trying as we ring in 2021:
- Exhale: As you take a moment to reflect on everything that has happened in 2020, take a deep breath and congratulate yourself for managing all the stress that surrounded us this year. As you exhale, visualize all the bad vibes leaving your body. In this very moment you are able to shift your mindset. Think of all the great things that are headed your way in the coming days, weeks and months. 2021 is destined to be a much better year!
- Celebrate: Our celebrations this year will be different but that doesn’t mean they can’t be fun. Since it is important to follow the public health experts’ safety recommendations, most of us will be celebrating alone or with one or two very close friends. We find ourselves wanting to be closer and find that even small moments of togetherness are very special! Make the most of the virtual time with your loved ones. If possible, schedule a Zoom call and invite all your friends to attend. Encourage everyone to extend the invitation to others so you have new people to meet. The more the merrier! Get dressed up! Prepare your favorite snacks and drinks and plan a few games to enjoy. Talk about plans for the new year. Share ideas for what fun will be possible once the public health crisis ends and “new normal” activities continue. Smile and focus your attention on all the positivity and optimism the occasion brings.
- Set good intentions: Some people make resolutions for the new year. Lose weight, save money, read more… blah, blah, blah– the list is endless. Sadly, only a very small percentage of those resolutions are accomplished. Rather than setting resolutions, try creating an intention, which is a more compassionate goal. An intention is based on the premise that your life is fine currently. You set an adaptable goal that will move you forward in a positive way. You have more flexibility and feel less pressure tied to the outcome. The positive mindset motivates you to take actions that lead to success.
If the ups and downs of 2020 have taught us anything, it is that we are in control of how we move through tough times. A shift in outlook can make all the difference in the world.
Get ready to step boldly and positively into 2021. Happy New Year!
