by Catherine Schasser
Putting pen to paper in an attempt to summarise the year that’s been has presented challenging.
Not the same kind of challenge that accompanies bushfires or global pandemics of course, but a hesitation just the same. Where would one begin and what adjectives could possibly describe a year such as this? The answer to that I’ve not yet discerned. What I have come to realise however are 7 Life Lessons confirmed by 2020.
1. The only certainty in life is life’s uncertainty. 2020 – need I say more?
2. People need people
This year’s social restrictions increased loneliness and depression and broke hearts around the world. If this lesson hasn’t been learned throughout 2020, I’m not sure when it ever will be. Be kind to others and seek the supports you need too.
3. Resiliency is the real goal. Full stop.
Not happiness, not stature, career climbing, first place awards or three vegetables for dinner. The real goal for all individuals – adults and children alike – is the ability to bend but not break. Resiliency is the ability to recover quickly after set-backs, to pivot and demonstrate flexibility. And guess what? In what will be recorded as one of the most collectively challenging years of our lifetime, you’ve made it this far! Keep going.
4. The law of polarity is real, relevant and reassuring
There is no doubt of the devastation and fear that’s swept the globe. But there has also been stories of triumph and successes. Like hot and cold, up and down or slow and fast, the polar opposites of a spectrum must exist somewhere in reality. Use this Law to be grateful when experiencing joy and hopeful when feeling lost. Both will ebb and flow as you move through life, with nothing lasting forever.
5. Dream, act, release
What are you waiting for? There are no guarantees in this game of life. The time is NOW to chase that dream, goal, longing or desire. Design it, act on it with passion, thought and faith, then release its outcome to a power greater than you. Get excited about the possibilities you could explore and use your energy and focus to develop your vibe! With joy as the energetic emotion, use its power to bring your hearts desires to fruition. Or something better. Embracing this life lesson not only moves you closer to feeling success, it trains you to keep your focus on what matters and that’s a win:win.
6. Gratitude is an attitude…and it matters
On my desk is a ‘novelty’ present I was once gifted. It’s a mug stating ‘Gratitude Is My Attitude’ in sparkling gold font. I’ve long held gratitude as my highest value but 2020 has certainly emphasised its importance. What has 2020 shown you that you had previously taken for granted? Travel? Schooling? Connection? Remember this lesson the next time you find yourself be-grudging a circumstance or responsibility. “You never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory” Dr Seuss
7. Always search for a silver lining
As we’ve been shown time and again this year, life is more than capable of presenting experiences which evoke anxiety, fear, depression, hopelessness and feelings of not-knowing. The question to ask yourself is, what now? The best mantras to inspire a silver lining include ‘This is happening for me, not to me’ or ‘There will be good in this somewhere, somehow, for someone’.
As you move toward another year of anticipated uncertainty, take the lessons you’ve learned from 2020 and make them work for you. Was it your health that suffered, your relationships, your finances or your wellbeing? Perhaps you’re one of the lucky ones and 2020 showed you the best of you? Either way, through success or challenge, take the lessons and go forward my friend. We’re not done yet and the world needs you.
These are 7 life lessons confirmed from 2020. I’m curious, what’s your biggest take-away from the year that was?
Sincerely, Catherine
Catherine is the co-founder of Developing Dreams, a local company ‘empowering children one adult at a time’. This vision is achieved through the educational curriculum at Developing Dreams Early Learning Centre named 2019 Best Small, Private, Regional Centre in NSW, and through coaching programs written and facilitated by Catherine. Email catherine@developingdreams.com.au for further information or to find out how you can be EMPOWERED in your life.