Well, 2020 was a bit shit wasn’t it?! Saying that, 2021 isn’t offering much comfort so far either, now we find ourselves back in another lockdown.
Not even a fortnight into the new year and most of us have already had enough.
The reality is 2021 was never going to start off easy. Most of us probably weren’t expecting another lockdown though and while it isn’t ideal (actually it fucking sucks) it is for the best. Let’s hope it does the trick and we can start to wave goodbye to Covid come summer and begin enjoying a normal life again.
As much as my heart sank when Bozza announced we were heading into another lockdown, I had already decided that were it to happen again, I would learn from last time.
Towards the end of the first lockdown I found myself really struggling mentally, as I am sure many of you did. I don’t want to find myself in that situation again.
So what exactly did I learn from 2020 and all it brought with it? And what will I be implementing in 2021 and beyond?
Well I have learnt not to put so much pressure on myself and to stress so much about the little things. Just do what I can each day and remember everything I achieve rather than focusing what I don’t.
Also to enjoy the little things more. Some of my favourite memories of last year are the simple ones. There was a particular day that I think of fondly where the three of us went to the woods and built a den, then came home and had a bbq. Savannah played in the garden while Matt sat and strummed on his guitar. I just happily sat watching them both. It sounds so insignificant but it was the most perfect day.
I want to enjoy those types of days more. I don’t always need to spend money to have a fun family day. Being together is what counts.
Another thing I am taking away from 2020 is how I deal with stress and anxiety and how I treat myself. I am so self critical and that needs to stop. I also need to break bad habits when I am stressed and not reach for a glass of wine or junk food. Instead I intend to exercise, read or write.
Finally, I need to push myself out of my comfort zone more and stop listening to that voice in my head that tells me I can’t do something or am not good enough.
2020 does feel like I lost year. The year our lives were put on hold. It does in many ways feel like time wasted. I had planned lots for 2020 and all those plans or bookings were kiboshed.
Events and weekends away can be rebooked though. The most important thing is that we still have our health and are alive. There are so many people who sadly aren’t.
2020 gave Matt, Savannah and me the chance to really spend time together and get to know each other. There were no other distractions, we had to entertain ourselves and I feel it did us all the world of good. I can see that Savannah and Matt have really bonded over the last year and built a solid relationship.
I lost the job I had at the beginning of 2020 which was initially devastating, but I now have a better paid job with a great company and couldn’t be happier. It is such a better position than I was in before and for a better company too so it was definitely for the best.
As much as I would like the opportunity to have some adventures in 2021, all I wish for is health and happiness. I hope that the spread of this virus starts to subside and loved ones can once again be together. And those who spent most of last year alone and lonely can enjoy other peoples company again.
2020 has definitely changed my mindset and outlook on things.
I am not perfect. There will be days I struggle to get motivated and struggle to focus but I HAVE to work much harder than I am to push through those times. And I am determined to do so.
I want to work hard and see where it takes me and I want to set a good example for Savannah.
What did you learn from the crazy year that was 2020? Are there any changes you want to implement moving into 2021?
2 Responses
Yet another great read Mrs!
It is inspiring to read how people can turn their life around from that dark place. The magic of lifestyle change, exercise and relationships with food play such a large part. But also having the support of people around you. Even as insignificant as a “good morning” or even a smile from a passer by on your morning walk.
Last year was a tad rubbish (putting it politely) and as you have mentioned, I will also be working on changing my ways how I deal with stress and anxiety. Also, make time to speak with my loved ones. We might not be able to see them and give them a much needed cuddle, a simple message or phone call is just as effective and just as important ❤
Bring it on 2021…. We have got this ????????
Great read! You are not alone, we all had bad days and like yourself I spent years of being my own worst critic. I’ve always lacked self confidence, so many never saw this as I put on a front. Just because I would post selfies it was not to be boastful but to get peoples recognition. I was in a relationship that pleased others, I loved the person but wasnt in love with them. I reached a point where I had to make drastic changes, like changing my diet for health reasons, losing the weight that burdened my life, focusing on fitness to cure my mental health. All these things together have put me in a place I always wanted to be but never thought I had the Will Power. Now 2021 will be maintaining what I’ve achieved and living life for myself and guiding my son the best I can through leaving school.