Hindsight is 2020

Interesting times we are surviving right now. This year will no doubt make a headline in the history books for various reasons. 

I must admit that I have never been one to be positive and optimistic all the time and yet, I have a small circle of friends who generally are. It's been interesting to see that these people have not been able to hang on to their usual optimism towards the end of 2020. Now I have experienced some very trying times in the past but this year has most definitely been extremely taxing and challenging in almost every department. 

So how will people recover from this year and will 2021 be any different? 

From my perspective, I think that what used to be a large celebration of the turning of the year into the New Year is possibly going to have a somewhat dampened energy to it this year. Many people I have spoken to are undecided about next year, they seem to be anticipating it as if it may still promise a new beginning, but are also weary of what might be in store for us around the turn of this year. Something that has stood out is that this year seems to be a blur for many people with very few positive milestones that have marked the months - as if the calendar read January, March, BLUR BLUR BLUR, oh my word it's OCTOBER already. 

With only 3 months left of this year of hindsight, what can we focus on to possibly bring a sense of accomplishment and joy?

Here are some things I will be aiming to focus on before we head into the next year:

1) Gratitude for today

Being the rather pragmatic person I am, every day has challenges that I face head on. Some days they get the better of me, some days I come out tops - But I will be making an effort to have more gratitude for each day, even the ones when I feel the worst. 

2) Gratitude for yesterdays

I love looking through memories and photos that bring a sense of nostalgia and a smile to my face. Although every one has memories that are sad, there is a good chance that many photographed memories will make you feel brighter. 

3) Time outside

The weather is warming here and I plan on using it and going for regular outdoor exercise. Exercise is scientifically proven to improve mood, increase feel-good hormone production in the brain and give your nervous system a "time-out". Regular exposure to sunshine helps to regulate your sleep cycle and lower your stress levels. 

4) Find a creative outlet

Being creative (in whichever form that takes for you) basically re-wires the brain and is therapeutic. Just setting aside 20 minutes a day to a creative talent or skill will start to have positive impacts within a short space of time. 

5) Grow something

Working with plants and soil has a grounding effect and also tends to lower blood pressure and provides a positive experience when a plant grows a new leaf or puts out a flower etc. Having an opportunity to be nurturing can change mood and increase positivity. 

So what will you focus on in the last few months to bring in a bit of balance to the end of 2020?