2020 learnings + epiphanies.
2020. Whoa.. Didn’t see that one coming. But really, who did? There’s a lot flying around the internet about 2020 and I am sure you are over it, me too. So I’d like to add my two cents just in case you don’t want to bang your head against the wall yet. I’d like to be the icing on that cake so indulge me would ya?
There is so much to say that I almost don’t want to say anything but that’s not like your girl so let’s cut to the chase, shall we? And if you’re new here, you can read my 2019 learnings here. It’s an annual thing!
Here are my thoughts on the past 365 days...
(in no apparent order and still based on my opinion only)
2020 has proven that I am not an introvert.
This year has required more mental strength then I ever knew I was capable of. I am proud of how far I’ve come in terms of patience and reinventing ways we can enjoy more home life.
For an IBS warrior like myself, the trend of athleisure has never been more welcome. Hello sweatpants!
I am more accomplished in the kitchen than ever before. I have made bread, healthy desserts, cream sauces and more. That alone feels like an accomplishment.
All cooking should be accompanied by French music. Pro tip.
I cherish my in-person workouts and miss them dearly but god am I grateful for our Peloton. Peloton saved my sanity this year.
My kids listen to every dang word we are saying. It’s like having little Russian spies around all the time.
My kids no longer crave light, fresh air or socialization. They are perfectly happy at home. Kind of scary but kind of wonderful.
We have consumed entirely too much TV and screen time. Entirely too much. We are brain dead.
We survived a major renovation during a pandemic with a rock star team. No regrets because our room/bathroom is beautiful. More on that in this post.
I really thought my husband and I would be bickering up a storm with us all being home but turns out I was wrong. It’s amazing that we have set boundaries and the level of respect we have for them. That was a big surprise.
My dishwasher and laundry machines have never worked so hard. I feel like I should give them a bonus this year.
I lost business in the beginning of the pandemic only to gain it back tenfold. I am so grateful for a team that pushed through and sought opportunities while moving at a lightening pace. We are a small business and it was paralyzing at first.
I never take my business for granted. Ever. And now more than ever.
Every business needs a digital contingency plan and that means social media. If you do not have one…what are you waiting for? Your target audience is stuck at home.
I really miss speaking engagements and panels and networking. I thrive off it so much.
This year was an unintentional reset. I unfollowed accounts that made me feels less than. I started listening to the people who were killing life more. I sought professional help for my own brand. I opened my ears when the world collided with BLM and politics. I found peace in admitting that I don’t know everything. I tried to listen when others were not.
I walked away from business and money that wasn’t a fit. Let me just say…it’s about time. It’s not all about the Benjamins.
I rebranded my personal brand. I wanted to provide value, build a community and grow. I wanted to differentiate myself. It is the hardest of hard but I am so grateful to my coach. You know who you are. <I still have a lot of work to do!>
I got more vulnerable and cringed every step of the way. You guys welcomed me and shared your stories. You gave me fresh hope.
My 2020 resolution was to get better at video and I did. I can check that off. I got the apps, the edits and I struggled through it. Old dog, new tricks…who dis?!
I took more mental breaks. I said no when I was fatigued and when I didn’t like something. I said yes to new friendships and challenges. I did what was best for me. For once.
I had a little gut check on friendships. Happy to say after all my struggles in previous years, it’s the same solid crew. I have so much respect and gratitude for these ladies. I miss them like bananas and it’s definitely more challenging to connect but my crew is small and mighty and fierce.
Our dog has never had it so good. What a diva!
I have become a connoiseur of press on nails.
I am going on Spring Break. Cue MTV.
Also, my hair has never been healthier. Pro tip: don’t wash it. Ever.
I can now create barista-like coffees and lattes. The perfect foam has become a hobby that I take very seriously. No coffee, no talkee.
Kids really need structure and socialization. I cannot wait for them to head back to in-person schooling in January.
On that note, I am the worst elementary teacher ever.
2020 was the year I take back my gut health. Taking customized supplements and shakes has changed my energy levels dramatically.
I was blown away on how polarized our communities have become. People speak up and out a lot on social media with no idea or expertise on what they are saying. It’s mind-blowing. And believable!
I am so glad the election is over. That was one for the books.
PS: do we ever have to vote in person again because this whole mail-in ballot situation was the bomb.
On that note, all medical appointments have been cut down in terms of treatment time significantly due to Covid. Can we make that permanent because I loathe the dentist and the eye doctor?!
I do dishes and sweep the house like it’s my job. Where’s my tip?
It’s true what they say, make your bed every morning to start your day off on the right foot. I do feel accomplished.
…but I still don’t like yoga or mediation. My brain just cannot slow down.
It’s okay to stay one night at a hotel. We did it and I was anxious but it was the best ever!
We are booking a trip in 2021 if it kills me and I am talking warm temps.
I never thought I would take 862 walks around my neighborhood in one year. On the flip side, I now know almost everyone in my neighborhood!
Managed to keep my hair + botox appointments. There are some things I am not willing to sacrifice. Screw you Rona!
Somewhat related…still can’t find a great concealer.
I now go to bed @ 9:00pm with Jack because there is only so much one can do at home.
I never want to do another Zoom ever again.
You can still treat yo self despite being a hard year. In fact, you should.
We are going to have so many weddings in 2021. Whoo!
Nobody cares about your stomach rolls.
People DO care about how you treat them.
Empathy is the single most important personality trait in life and in business. How many CEO downfalls did you read in 2020? Yo, the universe gives you what you put out. Facts.
Put your money or time where your mouth is and donate!
The most important relationship you have in life is with yourself.
It’s never too late. Ever.
Never miss the opportunity to say “I love you.”
Start practice hugging for 2021 because we are gonna do it in person and I am going to make it awkward.
Reach out and tell people positive affirmations, a compliment, anything. They need it.
Stop making excuses for your choices or showing up as yourself. If people do not accept it, tell them to go kick rocks on the highway.
Almost all friendships deserve a second chance. People do grow. <to the person I have DM’d with a ton this year…you will always be my special friend>
It’s possible to have too much family time.
I am happy to tell you what I don’t know but I am willing to find an answer for you!
There were so many accidental, bathroom privacy moments in our house. It could be an entire B roll.
Boy, did Baby Yoda have a comeback, right? I hate that I know that.
I want to dress up.
I thought Goop Lab and Emily in Paris were overrated. I watched the entire series.
I think I am happy that TikTok is here to stay. Thank you to my young friends for all the training and tutorials.
Does JLo age?
I have hope. I have hope in our leadership and what lies ahead. I didn’t last year.
Now you know who I voted for.
I am exhausted and refreshed. Is that possible?
Shit, I am going to be 43 this year.
If you made it this far, bless you child. I love you. I love your support. I love the time you are willing to give. May 2021 bless with you positivity, health and optimism. It’s our turn!
I typically draft and publish this post before the close of the year with a long, laundry list of things I learned about myself and others. It’s quirky. It’s sarcastic. It’s authentic. And, it’s a nice summary of self growth and truisms about aging gracefully. (not just the physical kind)
And if you’re new here, you can read my 2021 learnings here. It’s an annual thing!