This year was undoubtably hard. It pushed all of us in new ways and pulled us in a thousand directions. Emotions came to the surface that we had buried deep, pulling fears, insecurities and sadness out with them. To say this year was one of my most important for self-growth would be an understatement. I spent more time understanding myself and what brings me joy than ever. Many of the lessons here are things I always new, but didn’t necessarily practice or feel the importance of until this year. It’s said that the hard times make us stronger, and we aren’t given more than we can handle. This year was a beast, but it opened my eyes to some really important things – here are some of the lessons that 2020 taught me.
1. Don’t take time for granted. Hug your loved ones often and make sure they know you love them.
2. It’s not things that bring you joy, it’s the life you’ve built. Make yours one you wake up excited to live.
3. Quarantining with a partner can teaches you a lot with your relationship. Make sure you’re with someone who makes you laugh, brings you comfort, and always listens.
4. Time spent alone is time well spent. Get to know yourself, what you love, and what makes you tick. Wellness books have been some of my favorite reads this year to help me understand myself so much better.
5. Pets are the absolute greatest gift on the planet. End of story.
6. I need so much less than I thought. I traveled almost none and saw less people than ever. My happiness stemmed from the things I already had right within my four walls.
7. You are what you surround yourself with.
8. It’s okay to say goodbye to things that are no longer serving you.
9. Daily movement and meditation are two of the most powerful things for improving your mood.
10. Celebrate the small moments. Life is too short to make a fuss over only the big events – don’t wait.
11. I am in control of my emotions. A book I read earlier this year taught me how to be in control and not to dwell in my unhealthy emotions. Choose to make each day a good day.
12. Find a hobby that comforts you. I got very into cooking this year, and the act of putting on smooth jazz and chopping up fresh produce has become a form of therapy.
13. Mental health is real. Check in on your loved ones often and let them know you care. Also, realize the importance of indulging in self-care, whatever that looks like for you.
14. There will always be people in your life who don’t like you or don’t support you. That says absolutely nothing about you, only them. Let them go.
15. Stop assuming the worst. Most of the time, nothing is as bad as you think. And if it is, there’s no need to torture yourself twice. Stay positive until you know otherwise.
16. Those financial advisors were right – making your own coffee at home is a great idea. Those pennies add up.
17. As long as you never give up, failing is impossible.
18. You never know what someone else is going through. Be kind, always.
19. Stand up for what you believe in, and let your voice be heard. If you’re scared of what people will think, refer to lesson #14.
20. Set goals, work hard, and manifest the life you want. Design a life that you love.