In the words of Shaun King, “2020 will go down as one of the single most painful years of loss in modern American history.” We’ve been enduring the global COVID19 healthcare pandemic, continuing racial injustice and police brutality, loss of martyrs such as John Lewis and numerous others than inspired us to pursue our purpose.
“Whatever you choose for a career path, remember the struggles along the way are only meant to shape you for your purpose…As you commence to your paths, press on with pride and press on with purpose.” – Chadwick Boseman speech at the 2018 Howard University commencement ceremony. Inspiring masses of great minds.
Honoring the legacy of those recently fallen, let’s take 2020 in stride and learn from this tumultuous year. Deal?
Here’s 3 Key Lessons to Learn from 2020:
1. Show how much you care
In these uncertain times, it’s important to let people know how much you care for them and love them. Don’t assume what people understand or what they’re going through. You reminding them of how much they’re loved and cared for could make all the difference in the world to them right now. It can also grow your relationship with them. The more love you give, the more it will return to you.
Ways to show you care:
– Call someone you haven’t spoken to in awhile. See how they’re doing.
– Send someone a text message or email just to let them know you’re thinking about them.
– Find ways to volunteer helping communities in need that you’re concerned about.
2. Don’t let fear hold you back
When there’s so much uncertainty and unrest, it’s easy to get lost in the day to day. It’s also easy to lose focus of the future. However, you can still make your life what you want it to be. Don’t allow the fear and uncertainty of what’s going on around you affect the power of what’s possible within you!
Simple method to help prevent fear from holding you back:
a) Write down what you’re afraid of and why.
b) Write down what would be possible if that fear didn’t exist.
Do you still want to hold onto that fear? If yes, go back to (b). If no, keep reading.
c) Write down 3-5 things you can do to combat the fear. Practice these daily.
When it comes to fear and limiting beliefs, focus on what YOU have control and influence over!
3. Stay connected
You’re not in this alone! Everyone has different gifts, strengths, and weaknesses for a reason. It’s so that we will build relationships with one another as we lean on one another. It’s not meant for us to have to struggle (or celebrate for that matter) alone. Reach out to family, friends, support groups, church groups, etc. There is help and support available to you. I pray you’re led to just the support you need in this time.
Ways to stay connected:
– Find social media groups. (I know, I know. We’re getting tired of social media, but don’t neglect what you have being attached to what you wish for.)
– Find safe, local events. Drive-in movies, comedy shows, social distancing parties, road trips are not cancelled. Find local things to do that are practicing social distancing and sanitary protocols.
– Bond with family and friends. There’s no time like the present to get to know your loved ones better. Have conversations you haven’t had before, play games, learn something new together, or make money together (a win-win all around).