As the year comes to a close, we can’t help but bid the past 12 months adieu with a little bitterness: See ya later, 2020! Don’t let the door hit you on your way out (or, on second thought, let it hit you……hard and in the back of the ankles).
But mixed in with this bitterness lies some hope: 2020 is now over and if you’re reading this, you survived. So flip off the calendar and pat yourself on the back. Then hold your chin up high and move into 2021 with grace.
Of course, this lands like a challenge – we’ve all been through a dumpster fire and it’s only natural to feel burned. That’s why it might take a little proactivity on your part.
What this looks like is up to you but here are a few things you might consider:
Practice Acceptance: Sure, practicing acceptance is like giving up chocolate: It’s easier said than done. But, unfortunately for all of us, we don’t have much of a choice. Accepting the things you can’t control frees you from feeling as though you should try to control them, which helps remove their power.
Start a Mindfulness Routine: Mindfulness is all the rage and for good reason; it’s tied to lower levels of anxiety, less potent feelings of stress, and more experiences with gratitude. But physically it’s beneficial as well as it helps treat heart disease, control blood pressure, improve sleep, ease chronic pain, and reduce GI upset.
Don’t Try to Change the Past: Trying to change the past works if you’re Marty McFly or Doc Brown and you can get your hands on a Delorean. Otherwise, you’re out of luck. Refrain from chasing a different version of reality; “if only” may be the saddest phrase in the English language so it’s wise to do away with it completely.
Spend time in Nature: Whether you love to be outside or you think the Great Outdoors are just okay, nature nurtures! Make a point to spend time in it each day, even if it’s something simple like a walk around the block or sitting on the roof and looking up at the stars. Fresh air is medicine for the soul.
Start Something New: 2021’s New Year’s resolutions probably look different than those of the past. Instead of resolving to eat better or save money, you may be resolving to wear a
2020 was an unforgettable year that we all want to forget. The best way to do this is to move into 2021 determined to grow.
