Embracing 2021

We all know how unexpected the events of 2020 were. They effected us all in different ways, taught us lessons and made us resilient. Thankfully, 2020 is almost over and now is the time where we can reflect and make changes for the new year. Although a new year doesn't necessarily bring with it greater success, health or happiness, but it is an opportunity for us to embrace the fresh start. It's up to us to make those resolutions and improve our own lives for the better. So here are some ways to make 2021 better than the last.

Physically write down your goals

On new years eve, it's a traditional for me to physically write down my goals with pen and paper. You're significantly more likely to achieve them if you simply write them down. Either start with major goals or give yourself a questions to answer - and be specific!

Here are some examples for you:

A bad habit I am going to break...

A skill I am going to learn...

A habit I will implement...

A food I am going to try...

A place I will visit...

Something I will do more of...

Something I will get better at...

A book I am going to read...

A negative mindset I will change...

Reflect on the good and bad times

It's these moments that make us who we are and help us to grow. Think back to when you were happy or having a rough day. Think about how you felt and what you did to enjoy the moment or improve the situation. If you didn't quite approach it in a way you wanted to, there's always tomorrow. Maybe you were too busy on your phone to completely absorb a beautiful moment, moped around for a little too long and let yourself slump down or maybe you want to get better at replying and staying in contact with loved ones. That's okay! What ever it is, we all have our ups and downs. There's always another opportunity to do better and be better. Reflection can be a powerful tool to recognise and implement.

Give yourself something to look forward to

One thing that 2020 stopped us from doing was travelling. There's something about the countdown to your next trip, having it in the back of mind and the building excitement. Although things might not ease as much as we'd like in the new year, there are other ways that we can get our travel fix. Book a local holiday and stay within your state. Knowing you have a holiday booked always keeps you going. Even if it's just a weekend get away.

Or if it's not as big as a holiday, book in a spa treatment, schedule your family and friend catch ups in advance or even just make a reservation for a restaurant you've been meaning to try. Which leads me to...

Try new things

A new cafe, restaurant, walk or drive a different route, make a new friend, do something you've never done before. Go on a bush walk, have a picnic, go skydiving! 2021 is all about new beginnings, opportunities and adventures. Just do it! The world is your oyster. Although you don't need the start of a new year to try new things, it sure is inspiring with the potential for anything you can dream of.

I encourage you to make 2021 your year. No matter what it throws at us, if we can get through 2020, we can get through anything! Reach out to us, a friend or family member if you ever need help or just someone to chat to. You're not in this alone and well done for being so resilient through this past year. We did it!!