New year, new me… not this again

Every year we make promises in hopes of achieving more and becoming better individuals. Yet, many of us fold in the first month… if not sooner. But, why is this?

Reflecting on the past few years and how I came about making those resolutions I decided to try something different. I stopped for a moment and quietly contemplated what it is that I need, before taking part in the same old song and dance. I wanted to create healthy and realistic resolutions with the intent of actually achieving them in 2021. I think it was the first time I have ever really done so, and perhaps it is due to the kind of year that 2020 was, that I needed to try something different.

For many of us, 2020 was like going through a car wash, minus the car. Getting knocked from all sides and looking worse for wear at the end of it. Now it is time for 2021 with a pandemic that is not letting up and a virus that is simply mutating to find new hosts. Which is why I am taking charge and working on the things I can control.

If 2020 taught me anything it is that I cannot control the world and I am mostly going to have to deal with what life throws me. However, I am able to change the way I handle these side blows by being better prepared for them.

During 2020, a lot of people lost their incomes, others lost loved ones and some lost both. Bad news seemed to flourish and South Africans were (and are currently being) faced with a lockdown of alcohol. In other words, drowning your sorrows is no longer an option.

So what can we do to make 2021 better?

• Get a side hustle: It won’t hurt to have some extra cash, besides you never know when you’re going to need it!
• Instead of promising to lose weight, change your lifestyle with the aim of becoming a healthier version of yourself. P.S. If you’re doing it right, you’ll lose the weight naturally! #score
• Take time out, it’s good for your brain and well-being: Get away from social media! Go outside and do things like when you were a child. (I learnt how to grow my own veggies and now we’re eating homegrown goodness. I’ve also seen my anxiety drop with 80%)
• Learn new skills: Anything at all. From cooking to an online course you’ve been looking at. It will keep your mind stimulated and whatever you learn will help give you a sense of accomplishment.

Things to remember:

Do things slowly and be kind to yourself. 2020 was exceptionally tough for everyone around the globe, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Set out at least 3 key focus areas for this year and lay it out on a vision board. When you visualise goals they have a much higher chance of actualising!

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