It’s about 10 a.m. on December 31st as I write you this message. And I’ve got mixed emotions. So many end-of-year messages I’ve received and noticed on social media have been of the “Good riddance, 2020!” variety.
Yes, this has been an extraordinarily difficult year. And, like nearly everyone, I’m eager to welcome the fresh start that will come at midnight. Still this readiness to put 2020 behind us, which has been going on for months now, reminds me of something my mother-in-law used to say whenever I would go a bit crazy planning ahead: “Don’t wish your life away.”
There is such wisdom in that. She had a way of seeing the goodness that was right here. As hard as the last year has been, it was a year of our lives. Time that is only “wasted,” if we rush on without considering its lessons.
So in that spirit, I have a few questions for you to ponder that I hope will help you make 2021 the best it can be:
- What things from 2020 did you value and appreciate?
- Who brought you comfort or happiness this past year?
- What are some insights you gained about yourself as you handled all of the change in 2020? Where did you grow?
Make a note of your answers and remind yourself that you are remarkable!
I find great wisdom in our calendar and holidays. They bookmark opportunities to reevaluate and consider: “Am I where I want to be, doing what I want to do?” So, I hope that before rushing into 2021, you’ll consider giving this moment the appreciation it deserves.
Wishing you and yours all good things for the year ahead.
Happy New Year!