There’s no doubt that 2020 has been one of the most unique and challenging years of our lives.  On television I heard 2020 referred to as “a long decade”. Although it’s been challenging for me personally and professionally, I feel that I have grown as a person.  I have enjoyed watching my boys, Andrew and Tyler, explore and grow.  I have enjoyed going for long rides in my wheelchair.  Lastly, I have grown as a writer.

It looks like this pandemic is going to be here for a lot longer than we expected.  Right now, we have about two months to go in this year of 2020, and it’s great time to at least think about how you want your life to look in 2021 and beyond.  Let’s face it, we have a little less control over lives.  We have fewer freedoms such as giving hugs, going to concerts, going to sporting events, family gatherings, etc. 

 This does not mean that we have to be at the mercy of the pandemic or that we can’t live out an amazing life.  It just means for a little while longer, we have to live differently.  This includes wearing masks, changing our behaviors, avoiding crowds, and not hugging our nearest and dearest.  As the holidays approach, it will be tempting to fall into a funk because our natural instinct is to compare this holiday season to those of past years. Instead of making that comparison, create something radically different.  Rather than throwing a big party, host something more intimate.  Focus on making it your best holiday ever.

 As for 2021, take the opportunity to improve your life, upgrade your skills, improve your relationships (even on Zoom), and set bigger and bigger goals.  The goal is not to focus on everything that you are missing. The goal is to put your attention and focus on improving your life and putting yourself in the best possible position to succeed after the pandemic.