Well it’s another new year and although many are feeling the new year, new me thing… it’s not for me. You see last year, just like the year before that and the year before that, has been an outstanding experience of highs and lows. Although I am more then ready for a new year, I feel it’s important not to wish away a bad one or hope for something bigger and better. 2020 was a whirlwind of a year and although I can see the neon signs that say “Welcome to the 2021” I think it’s more important to reflect on the last year than it is to set resolutions that I’d never follow through with.
Here are my top 5 reasons to hold the experiences of 2020 in high regard.
- Our family has experienced amazing things and terrible things. Not to sound corny, but everything has happened for a reason. Sickness has strengthened relationships, disappointments have taught us about our desires, and achieving the things we always thought we wanted were met with enjoyment and a realization that maybe those things weren’t all that important after all.
- Balance is key. A perfect balance is impossible, however one thing I learned in 2020 was too much work or too much play doesn’t make sense. Moving between busy and slow times seemed to make me lose my mind, but than realizing I was moving too fast and not enjoying any of it made me learn it was a time for a change.
- Travel is fun but being home is better. Yes, an occasional trip for two is always called for but having finally found our forever home, we quickly learned a weekend home or a party with friends is more enjoyable then leaving especially in the middle of a pandemic.
- Delayed gratitude is the definition of being an adult. Throughout the struggles of learning to publish a book I learned immediate gratification isn’t something that comes easily. I’ve learned to be okay with that.
- The highs aren’t always that high. As the world continues to turn, there are things that seem like the best moments you have ever had. But then life happens and one that is even better is on its tail. When I was younger, I would be concerned that a great moment would be ruined by a bad one, however I’ve learned the bad ones are easier to take if you convince yourself there is always a good one around the corner.
As 2021 begins I refuse to forget the moments of 2020 that made us who we are today. I’ve never been one for resolutions because let’s be honest, if I really want to do something, I’m going to just do it. But for those of you who do I wish you the absolute best in working towards your goals. Don’t forget small wins are huge too.
Happy Reading.
-Nikki Rome