Needless to say, this year was hard. Many of us lost loved ones, jobs, our sense of safety, and so much more. We didn't take that vacation, host the wedding, or gather with friends and family over the holidays. And while some of us did get good news this year (promotions, graduations, engagements, etc.), finding time to relish in the good moments were difficult.
Although 2020 presented more challenges than imagined, I can't help but point out how we persevered. Consider this the year we all became stronger, more resilient, and more present. If I could wrap up 2020 in three takeaways, they'd be:
- You can experience joy and pain at the same time. We've experienced complex ranges of emotions this year and that's okay. You're allowed to be sad about the state of things and experience moments of joy. Give yourself permission to experience
both.
- Feel the fear and do it anyway. This year, I left a job that I enjoyed to try something brand new. I didn't know what to expect going into it and the uncertainty of leading a new company, amidst a pandemic, was quite the task but I did
it and I've learned so much along the way. If you're feeling afraid of making a big decision or trying something new, do it anyway.
- Continue to fight for justice - even when it's no longer trending. It goes without saying that the summer protests, conversations with loved ones about race and politics, commitments to support Black and brown businesses, and
raising awareness about transgender rights has made positive impacts in our collective fight for justice. These efforts can't end in 2020, keep it going.
Heading into 2021. A few weeks ago, I asked you to think about a word that would help guide you through 2021. We want to know, did you come up with one? Here's our words for next year:
I chose deliberate (slow, unhurried, and steady as though allowing time for decision on each individual action involved). Takia chose playful (full of play or fun; light hearted).
Reminder, all you have to do is think about any areas of growth you'd like to pursue or where you would like to stop limiting yourself. Write down a short list and then pick the one that resonates with you the most by January 1.
How will you know when you have your word, ? Honestly, it's a feeling that came over us that told us those were the words we needed to focus on most. See what comes up for you and let me know the word that will carry you through 2021.
Cheers to another year!
