End of year

Every year I pick a “word of the year” to focus on as a guidepost for the year.  For 2021, I selected the word “acceptance”, not realizing at the time, how this word would serve me throughout the year.

We’ve all had to accept the various restrictions brought on by the enduring pandemic/COVID virus, within our workplace, our homes, and social interactions. I’ve learned a new level of acceptance with patience, tolerance, and even acceptance itself, with others varying opinions about the pandemic, vaccinations, and political issues.

I’ve learned acceptance of my loss of control, loss of connection with others, and a new level of grief over diverse losses not only for myself and my family, but other’s losses as well.

And yet, there is this realization of empowerment in this acceptance, that brings a new understanding of the fragility of life, the importance of connections, routines and habits.

As I move forward into 2022, I’m going to try to take what I’ve learned to help me reset my footing.  I’m going to carry acceptance forward into the new year; acceptance that it’s OK to not be OK. I’m going to focus on the present and enjoy the moments, people and connections I’m experiencing.  I’m going to “stay the course” which means, keep to a routine of health and well-being.  I know that small steps over time, with consistency and patience, brings about sustainable behavior changes.

And because I’m a huge Brene Brown fan, I’m going to accept my vulnerability, the good, the bad and the ugly. It is through this vulnerability I will continue to grow and learn to trust myself through the adversity.

And lastly, I’m going to focus and celebrate connections.Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned over this past year – it’s that I truly value and need “my people” - in all areas of my life. It is through these connections and relationships that I am grounded and renewed with the good life.