A review and new! What will you choose?

In reviewing last December’s blog, it seemed fitting to incorporate some of last year’s musings into this year’s December blog. It offered a chance to see that we have come far you’ve come!

December is here! Whew! It’s been quite a year and we will soon see the beginning of 2022 and new beginnings for everyone.

There’ve been so many challenges and changes to life:

• You’ve learned to shelter in place, isolate or quarantine. You choose the word.
• You’ve learned the benefits to others of our wearing a mask.
• Masks have become a fashion statement!
• You’ve learned new ways to communicate with your loved ones or do business without being in person.
• You’ve learned that many things slowed down during the pandemic such as mail, less food items and, of course, toilet paper!
• You’ve been home schooling and possibly working from home simultaneously.

At the same time the above changes of 2020-21 have brought about new ways of living:

• Quiet time at home with loved ones.
• Cooking foods that you’ve always wanted to try.
• Seeing your neighbors more even if it’s waving from the balcony or lawn.
• Time to actually have conversations with those living in your home such as your children or spouse/significant other.
• Reading
• Learning something new because you have the time such as a language, a skill, play an instrument, even knitting.
• Taking time to reconnect with you, who you are, and what you want to be when you grow up (no matter what your age)!

As we see the even newer normal coming into view in 2022, I know I want to spend more time with my grandson and son. Those hugs melt my heart. I’ll look forward to traveling again and going to events. All good things involving being with those I love.

The most important question is what do you want to keep doing once you return to a “new” normal?

I invite you to think about what has made you happy through this past year and to keep it as part of your daily routine or your life moving forward. Is it greater communication with loved ones? A new skill? That novel you always wanted to read or maybe, write?

Whatever you choose, make it yours in 2022. Let it become a part of you, the better part of you.

Most importantly, do it with LOVE! And possibly these few tips will give you a jump start as you move into the holidays.

5 tips for navigating changing holiday traditions:

• Communicate your expectations. Discuss with your family which traditions may change and why
• Aim for what works for this year only
• Focus on people not on a specific date and time
• Recognize the importance of food traditions
• Honor your feelings

 

Spending the holidays alone? Here’s a few suggestions!

• Treat yourself in a memorable or nostalgic way
• Remember what and who you still have
• Set whatever tone you want
• Create new traditions with your substitute or remote family
• Reset expectations
• Volunteer your time
• Practice hospitality
• Get in touch with your spiritual side
• Be strategic and consistent in combating loneliness
• Start a gratitude journal for the holidays
• Share your appreciation of the people in your life
• Have a TV marathon
• Attack the day with purpose and hold onto what makes you feel whole and fulfilled

YOU’VE GOT THIS!!!

Happy December 2021!