2020 has been adventurous for most of us, but more in the form of learning curves rather than actual ‘things’. We’ve appreciated friendships and relationships, learnt about hobbies and ways to keep busy, and many of us have even kickstarted new business ideas or focused more on goals.
No matter what you do in your job, or whether you’re single or taken, a mum or a workaholic – there’s just something about setting down a year’s worth of intentions on paper. Setting plans and goals will always feel magical to me. But this year, for the new 2021 year, I’m feeling a little different. As 2020 comes to a close, I wanted to reflect on the lessons learnt and what I’ve come away thinking about.
It’s taught me to slow down, without loosing my ambition and motivation. But alongside that, there are other aspects of learning that I can apply to 2021. Want to hear what 5 of them are? Take a read below…
1. Some weeks you may accomplish absolutely nothing—and that’s totally OK
My productivity came and went in various waves in 2020. I wet through weeks of not achieving much and earning very little, and then other months and weeks the coin was completely flipped.
On the days where I felt nothing was achieved, I found myself getting really frustrated with myself because I’d always said “if only I had more time…”. How many of you are as guilty as me with this? I’m always saying that there are never enough hours in the day, and it must be so boring for people to hear.
But then, when I had the slower weeks and time was more in the abundance, I’d find myself wasting it. So for 2021, I’m going to be way more strict with my time. January and February are quiet months with my line of work, so now I’m going to plan to have days where I focus mainly on shooting quality content. Days when I work on finances, days when I meal plan. Why not go as far as to plan in a night where you learn a new skill or continue studying something?
The same can be said for taking time out to relax and do something enjoyable. Online shopping, chatting to friends, booking trips, playing casino online at popular gaming sites like https://playamocasino.net/ and of course, resting more!
2. Dressing up and showing up has everything to do with you, and nothing to do with anyone else
Sometimes I stay in my dressing gown and pjs all day, and I’ll be honest, they are my worst days. I feel awful, like I’m not productive, like I’m slobbing out and I hate looking in the mirror. When I feel like this, it’s crazy what effect it has on my mind.
Getting dressed properly or doing my hair and makeup is time consuming and sometimes feels a waste when I’m staying indoors but it’s crazy how much it boosts me. So for 2021, I’m going to make more effort. I’ve held myself to this now, so let’s see! Even when bad things happen or the day is extremely low, looking in the mirror and knowing I’ve made the most of myself and am feeling presentable is sometimes enough to give my day that extra kick it needed.
Remember though, it’s all about making an effort and showing up for yourself, and no on else. There’s no one who deserves me showing up as my best self more than me.
3. Never stress over a few extra lbs
This is one I understand people will struggle with. I got pregnant in 2020, and while it has been a blessing, I’ve had a few growth issues with the baby which has made me obsessed with piling on as much as weight as possible so I know the baby gets the maximum from me as possible. I have always eaten healthy, but I’m a small person naturally so it looks like baby girl is going the same way. However, while I aim for over 3,000 calories a day, I’ve put on almost 3 stone which is a lot for 9 months of carrying!
Pregnancy aside, no matter what our situation or reason for putting weight on, we have to remember to be kind to ourselves. It doesn’t matter if we don’t feel our best or are worried we’ll never shift the extra gain. You can always shift any extra gain, but if you’ve needed those pounds to pile on a little due to boredom with being at home more or just purely due to the Winter season, then that’s OK. We can re-train out bodies and work on healthier plans later down the line. Have faith and trust in yourself, as that’s what I’ll be doing in 2021. .
4. Falling in love with your natural beauty is beautiful
When I say this, I mean the stripped back version of ourselves. I don’t wear as much makeup these days and I don’t get my roots or hair done as much, either. Nails, well I paint them myself if I have to, but I do invest in skincare and facial treatments myself at home, taking care of my skin. Saying that, I could do with consuming more water and healthier food, but that’s something for 2021 I need to hack.
If you have had to strip back on things like lash appointments, hair, nails, etc etc, don’t stress. Embrace your natural beauty. Try to appreciate your own skin and complexion without enhancements, As soon as you fall in love with this, you’ll rely less on the others. Making an effort is amazing, but to learn to love your natural beauty is something else. You’ll soar in confidence!
It’s so healthy for your mind and body to feel great leaving home with just sunscreen and lip balm on! And this my friends is what I call one of the biggest growth areas of 2020 to take into 2021.
Do let me know if there are any lessons from 2020 you’ll be proudly taking into 2021 and growing more strongly…
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