We have very recently taken the time to celebrate New Year’s eve in restricted ways to say goodbye to 2020. Throughout 2020 we have experienced dark, depressing clouds carrying the virus and the heartbreaking human stories and statistics it has imposed. Let’s assume that as 2021 unfolds, the dark clouds will be replaced with clear, sunny skies as the recently approved vaccines are administered and we gradually return to a “new normal life”. Most important will be the strengthening of our mental and physical wellness and the resumption of the personal freedoms that were previously restricted.
Following are a few suggested thoughts and actions to help renew and brighten our outlook:
(1) Let’s wrap up and place the 2020 bag of hurts and disappointments in the disposal bin. Let’s progressively enjoy unwrapping the 2021 gifts that will allow us to renew and redirect our energies and our lives.
(2) Let’s remember that being able to try something new and making a mistake is not bad because it is another form of learning. Let’s ensure we eliminate our restricted lifestyle habits and reopen the door to our learning. This will allow us to test our tastes with fresh, tasty breads and throw away the “stale bread” we were forced to eat.
(3) In addressing the new days in our life, lets plan to once again become explorers and welcome new experiences, revitalize our relationships and enjoy the satisfaction and happiness they generate.
(4) Let’s get up earlier. We can use the extra time to do different satisfying things e.g. – physical exercises – finishing an incomplete chore or project – sending warm greetings to a family member or friend – or simply greeting the day with a smile and taking the time to enjoy mother nature in her many forms.
(5) Let’s take time to behave like squirrels and begin to enjoy the financial nuggets that were “stored” during the required quarantine.
(6) Let’s try some different menus and treats in our weekly diets that will provide variety that is “the spice of life”.
(7) Let’s ensure we still allocate time to reading books and enjoying the quiet time and the interesting and often inspirational stories they provide.
(8) Let’s break any naughty habits that might have been adopted during COVI 19 e.g. – alcohol consumption – overeating – excessive TV watching and inactivity – biting our fingernails – and drinking too much coffee.
(9) Let’s appreciate that during 2021 we will be able to – recharge our family “togetherness”- renew our circle of personal relationships – undertake our extracurricular interests and activities – travel and explore the environment at home and abroad.
(10) It might be of value to prepare a fresh “bucket list” to help optimize our renewed life and freedoms e.g. – make unrestricted personal decisions that will enhance our mental and physical wellness – undertake the hobbies and interests that have been deferred – set new goals we want to consider – satisfy our unfilled personal desires – release the cooped up love and emotions we want to express and feel. In other words let’s undertake to live, appreciate and enjoy every new day
(11) Let’s continue to be truly thankful for the daily blessings we receive.
