Re-write your story of 2020. A year’s Review
2020 has been a roller coaster for most of us. Many of us planned for events that were not possible during a pandemic. I heard one joker describing a 2020 Planner and the most useless 2019 Christmas gift.
I follow a lot of Thought Leaders. Reading their stuff keeps me current and jogs my own thinking.
A yearly review is an annual event for me. I like to look back and then look forward to what may come. This year especially, I’m going to be careful what thoughts I allow to linger. I know too many negative ones will steer me away from what my company calls True North.
Most of us know what matters to us. We’ve all been de-railed this year. Plans went awry. Meetings were curtailed and events cancelled. It would be natural to fall in with the naysayers who apportion blame.
But what good is blame here? What good will it do us to let our compass shift our direction?
This year, I’m going to ask you to re-write your story.
Shake off any disappointment from your personal and professional goals and remind yourself where you’re heading. Don’t let negativity overtake you. It’ll stifle your creativity and leave you floundering.
I’ve heard many stories of strength in adversity. Stories of those who have shifted their focus and brought on new projects sooner than planned.
I’ve read of individuals building for a stronger future even when all seemed lost – because if not now, when?
There will always be those who want to wallow in disappointment, my step-brother being one of them.
With nothing apparently to look forward to, at 70 he frets it’ll be Spring until he has a vaccine, he dwells on cancelled holidays, and don’t start him on the uncertainties of Brexit!
Of course it’s rude to hold the phone away but I mentally shove in my earplugs. I don’t want to be overtaken by others’ negativity.
- I can’t risk being drawn into conversations of despair
- I won’t allow myself to be pulled along with the rest
There’s much at stake -but you’re got to think it’s worth it. Keep your hope for the future strong so you maintain your ability to be inspired. It’s your vision and clear purpose that will pull you through (and a touch of gratitude for what you do have in your life that’s good and wholesome).
Yes of course, we’ve all had a challenging time. Some of know those who have lost family and friends. I’m not making light of that at all, and send my prayers to all who are suffering from loss and isolation, distanced by mental health issues and personal barriers.
But take a moment to review what you’re saying to yourself about 2020, and to others.
- How are you processing it?
- What story are you writing about 2020?
- How could you move into 2021 stronger, and more resilient?
It’s how we process the ugly in our lives that shows our character.
So this year, as I look back on all that was - and all that wasn’t, I’ll be thinking how I can bring more of myself to my day, so that I am strong and a light for others, if they need it.
I’ve needed to lean on others quite a bit this past 9 months, and I’ve been grateful for all kinds of support when hugs weren’t available.
As 2020 comes to a close it’s time for me to find a way to move into the new year with more insight. I look forward with optimism to see where I can serve, and I’m keeping gratitude close to my heart.
What story will you be telling about 2020? How will you move towards a better year for yourself inn 2021?