Moving Into 2021 With Laughter, Gratitude and Faith
The year that shall not be named is over. It was fraught with, well, a bit of everything that’s dark, sad and depressing. So, what’s next? How can we make 2021 brighter, more full of hope and happier even when it isn’t?
Here at DPM, we are focusing on the good we see in the world and actions we can take to help ourselves and our customers, families and friends do the same.
Words to Help You Stay Positive in 2021
Studies show there are quite a few things that can help us keep ourselves in a good mental space, even when things aren’t going well:
- Laughter. Laughter, it turns out, really is the best medicine. A recent study confirmed many existing ideas about the benefits of a good laugh. Cracking up at a good joke or letting out a hearty guffaw over something increases your oxygen intake, activates and relieves your stress response and can soothe tension.
- Gratitude. Another way to maintain good mental health is keeping a gratitude journal. It’s one thing to know the blessings in your life, but writing them down is an excellent way to force yourself to reflect on your day and find something to be grateful for – no matter whether you’ve had a good day or just experienced what feels like the thousandth Monday in a row.
- Faith. Lastly, for those who are inclined, upping your faith journey can truly bring down your stress. Whether that’s an early morning devotional, writing out some scripture or participating in an online faith study, making that a regular part of your routine can be helpful in sustaining yourself through a crisis.
In addition to these words, which have guided me throughout my life, I’ve also reflected on what I can do, both for myself and our team, to make the most of 2021.
Lessons from 2020
Here are a couple of ideas and plans I have for this year based on the lessons I learned last year:
1. Keep the calm going.
There’s a theory that we should all try to be like the ducks on the water – calm on the topside, but underneath paddling like crazy. If I learned anything from the last 12 months it is that as a leader, it’s important for me to keep my calm while paddling to keep our business moving forward. That way, we can do more for your businesses as the pandemic continues and we move further along our new normal path.
Additionally, there’s something refreshing about a slower pace. It’s been nice not to have a jam-packed calendar, always having places to go. Letting go of the busyness also helps me focus more on what’s important.
It isn’t always easy, but I am doing all I can to incorporate laughter, gratitude and faith into my life as much as possible.
2. Enjoy the season.
If we learned anything from last year it’s that time is fleeting and we should slow down to appreciate where we are and the good things in our lives. For instance, this month, let’s revel in the Tennessee Titans playoff run for as long as it lasts (fingers crossed that’s all the way to Tampa Bay in February).
The Nashville Predators are back on the ice and SEC college basketball for men and women is in full swing. We are blessed in Tennessee with mild winters, so there are still opportunities for getting out and about in our beautiful state.
Moving Forward in a Positive Way in 2021
We are all ready for a new beginning, but let’s not forget some of the lessons last year taught. Moving forward together is the best way for all of us to succeed.