In a blink of an eye, we are already nearing the end of 2020. How is it already December? As we gear closer to the end of what has been an incredibly challenging year, I have been reflecting on what 2020 has taught me. The first thing that comes to mind is gratitude. I came across a post on Instagram recently that said, "I thought 2020 would be the year I get everything I want, now I know 2020 is the year I appreciate everything I have. "
Let that sink in. This year has truly allowed us to take a step back and remind ourselves that it's okay to pause. 2020 has been such a powerful reminder to embrace the present moment at its fullest and to be grateful for each new day. I have never been more grateful for all that surrounds me than right now.
2020 has also taught me to appreciate even more the power of human connection. Prior to the pandemic, I didn't even realize how much I used to take moments with the people I love for granted. I never would have imagined that FaceTime and Zoom would end up being the main ways I would stay connected. As I think back at the moments when I was physically in the same space with my closest friends and family in California, I only wish I could have been more present.
This year has challenged me to be more appreciative of the present moment. Instead of focusing on what's next - I have learned to stay in the now and love myself in the now. That's where the power is at. Being grateful of the present moment has empowered me to be more engaged in the conversations with the people I care about. I'm grateful for the time 2020 has given me to self-reflect.
At the end of the day, all we have is time and how we spend it. Our future is the result of the steps we take right now. Be intentional about your actions. Make gratitude a lifestyle.