As I’m sure you can relate, this year has been filled with many surprises and life lessons. For me, it has put a lot into perspective and forced me to adapt to a new normal that isn’t at all what I thought 2020 would look like. However, I’m a strong believer that God is purposeful in the experiences he puts in front of us. It is in this light that I wanted to share with you 5 easy tips to improve your life in 2021 and create an amazing year ahead.
Like the old saying goes, “things happen for a reason.” I have found it’s misleading to imagine that we are developed in spite of our circumstances; we are developed because of them. It’s victory in circumstance that is needed not victory over them.
5 Easy Tips To Improve Your Life In 2021:
1. Be patient and persistent for what you want
Great things do not come easily; we need to be clear in what we want and be persistent in getting it. We also have to have patience because many things do not happen overnight. These points are simple to understand but they are harder to put into practice.
I started by blog over a year ago, and although it’s not where I wish it would be, I’m proud of the small accomplishments I’ve made along the way. Making to-do lists and having short and long term goals have helped me stay focused on what matters and shake off the noise.
2. Create Some “Me Time”
It’s so important to carve out some time for ourselves to relax and disconnect from our current life obstacles or what’s happening in the world today. There are so many great things you can do like carve out a few minutes each day to pray, meditate, or read an uplifting book. It doesn’t have to be for a long time; a few minutes can make a huge difference. I’ve found praying the rosary during this quarantine has helped me connect with God and lifts my mood for the day. If meditating isn’t for you (I find prayer to be the best for me) try picking up an inspiring book like an autobiography of a leader you love; or something like coloring that can be therapeutic.
3. Ask For Help When You Need It
I haven’t always been the best at asking for help but this year has been different. Whether it’s professional or personal, I think it’s important to ask for help when you are feeling overwhelmed or need advice. Whether it’s a coach or friend, asking for their opinion on something can oftentimes help you get to the next step in what you’re doing and avoid unnecessary stress dwelling on different scenarios. I have a group of close friends I like to call my board of directors that I go to for their advice on certain things, and I find that always helps me feel better when I’m stuck. We all should help each other out and be proud of not just our success but also that of those around us.
4. Learn Something New
Whether it’s taking a class or picking up a new hobby, learning something new will help keep your mind grounded and engaged. My parents have always encouraged learning and at a young age gave me some advice I will never forget. When they would enforce education (because let’s face it, who enjoyed going to school every day?) they would remind me that education is the one thing that cannot be taken away from you. That has been instilled in me and I’m always excited to learn new things. Currently I’m enrolled at Pratt Institute completing a certificate in interiors to learn more about the world of interior design. There are so many fun classes you can choose from on CourseHorse and listen to inspirational people in different fields via MasterClass. You can also pick up a new hobby like needlepoint or even master the art of calligraphy.
5. Stay Connected
Have group chats on your phone, plan virtual happy hours and parties, and network with those in your industry. In the beginning I think some of us were doing way too many zoom meetings but I think keeping them around in a balanced way is good for our mental health. I have group chats with family and friends and it really helps to stay connected. I think having those in your life to have deep conversations about what’s happening in our world is also important.
Some of the celebratory zoom parties I’ve been part of include a baby shower and baby gender reveal, a retirement party, and a birthday party. Each had their own twist and an activity to participate in. It may sound cheesy but they have been a lovely way to stay in touch.
Lastly, continue to network. I’ve reached out to people in my industry that I haven’t spoken to in a while to reconnect. I’ve also met new friends in the blogger community. We’ve texted and even done video chats which have been insightful and fun.
I hope these tips are helpful as you start the new year and if you have other tips you have found helpful please let me know in the comments below!
PS if you want to virtually tour museums around the world check out this post that has some of my favorites and my easy tips to nail that next zoom call!
