I love New Year’s Day because it feels like a symbolic time when we can begin again (even though we can begin again at any time of the year). During 2020 there has been a lot of time to reflect on our lives because our schedules forced us to change and stay put.
During this period of reflection, I found there are some things that I want to keep as a result of 2020, and others that I want to say good-bye to. For instance, I joined a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) in 2020. The fresh produce was great. As a result, I tried new recipes and felt like I ate very nutritiously. So, in 2021 I want to keep that up. However, I can tell you that I can’t wait to go out to dinner with friends and have someone else cook for me without worrying that the person at the next table might be infected with the virus. From a professional perspective, I attended remote classes and all kinds of interesting webinars that changed the way I coach, hopefully in a positive way. I want to continue that development because I want to show up as the best coach that I can.
So, I ask you what are you bringing into 2021 that you discovered in 2020, and what are you going to let go of? It is personal for everybody, and the situations you find yourself in is unique to you.
What did you find that was satisfying about 2020 and how did it make you feel? I chose not to go to the gym even when it opened. Instead, I walked outside and found different routes to take. What got reaffirmed for me is that being outside in nature is very fulfilling and really makes me feel alive, even on the coldest days. It also turned out to be a time where I could talk with my neighbors and feel that human connection. In our previously very busy lives that didn’t happen very often.
When I talked to people about their careers or the companies they work for some discovered that it was time to move on. While others said they realized they worked for a great company because of the way they were treated during this unprecedented time. Some said that they wanted to move on but didn’t think they should try to change roles during a pandemic. This is totally understandable if this is where you find yourself. However, I would ask everyone what can you do to prepare themselves for that next move or opportunity? Is there a project that would provide an opening for learning new skills or creating visibility to others about just what you have to offer? Does your resume need to be updated? Do you need to reach out to a mentor? Putting some steps in motion can be very beneficial as we leave the pandemic behind us and our world begins to open up. It can make us feel like we are taking action towards our goals which can fuel our motivation to keep going.
I realize I am writing from a place of privilege because I haven’t lost my job or worried about how I am going to pay my bills or put food on the table. I am very grateful for that. If this is where you find yourself, I know taking those next steps may seem daunting. However, even taking baby steps will get you to where you need to be. Find a friend or mentor to help you stay motivated all along the way. You don’t have to do all of this alone, and people want to help. If 2020 taught us anything it is that we are very resilient and we need others. Remembering that resiliency and those relationships will not only carry us into 2021, but also beyond that.
Happy New Year! I hope 2021 brings health, and prosperity for all of you.
Donna Aldrich is a Leadership Coach and Author who works with Individuals and Corporations to build strong leadership skills that drive both people and corporations forward. She believes everyone can lead from where they are.