The Five Lessons 2022 Gave Me to Master 2023
2022 was full of ups and downs. We lost some loved ones. We welcomed new loved ones into the world. We continued to maneuver with the COVID-19 pandemic (to mask or not to mask). We struggled with whether to send our children to school or to continue homeschooling them. We faced a tough economic climate with people losing their jobs, homes and retirements. We stepped up to the challenge of living with raising cost of essentials such as groceries (how expensive are eggs going to get?) and utilities, while continuing to live life.
As we enter each new year, I like to reflect on what I learned from the year before. Although we did have plenty of challenges in 2022, we had many wins. I like to look at these wins as lessons to help us through the next year. Here is a list of five lessons 2022 taught me to conquer 2023.
Enjoy time with family and friends
During the pandemic, we got used to being in our own separate spaces and social distancing which caused a loss of social contact. Now, that we are able to do so safely, is the time to restart and maintain those connections with family and friends. Spending time with people you hold dear can brighten your mood and alleviate stress. Take time from the busyness of work and stress to talk and laugh with family. Continue to build bonds with people who will help you stay grounded and balanced.
Take a leap
If nothing else, 2022 taught us that nothing is promised to us. Many of us have a “Someday List” or a “Bucket List” of things we want to do, but allow the demands of life to avoid completing the tasks/goals on the list. In 2022, I heard from so many people who wished they had done something before illness, life circumstances, etc. occurred. Make a vow to yourself to take the leap and go for it. Whether it be learning a new skill, taking a class, losing weight or taking a trip, as Nike says, “Just DO It”. This may lead to a new talent, a new skill or a new venture. Taking a leap could open some many possibilities for happiness, laughter and memories of a lifetime.
Don’t listen to the naysayers
In 2022, I was given the opportunity to advance my career and in speaking to others, they tried to discourage me. I saw this happening with others around me as well. Fortunately, I, as well as others, decided to not listen to other people’s opinions and was amazingly surprised. If I had listened to the naysayers, I would not have made moves in my personal and professional life. I would be stuck in the same rut as I had been in for years. Listen to your intuition and take the steps you want to go. In 2023, don’t be afraid of stepping out, even if you have to sometimes step alone. Take your time to weigh your decision and do what is best for you. People will always have comments or opinions, but your opinion is most important.
Take a moment for self
In 2022, we continued the hustle and bustle of years past. We focused on work, families and community. We often left little time to take care of ourselves and in turn we struggled with signs of stress. You know the signs, weight gain, headaches/body aches, and other ailments. 2022 taught me to slow down and take time out to breathe. It encouraged me to spend more time doing things I love such as reading, writing and being creative. Taking time for self-care helps to keep the stress at bay and keep us healthy.
Embrace the mistakes
We have to admit that there were some times in 2022 we wish we could take back. We made some decisions or choices that may not have yielded the best outcome. I know that I had plenty of them but I was soon able to learn that those mistakes were lessons I needed in order to grow forward. Some of those mistakes were small such as making a wrong turn, but I ended up learning about different areas and found new places to go to. Some were bigger such as missed contacts with potential clients that lead me to learn about tools to make my days easier and more productive. We can choose how we handle a mistake. We can choose to be upset that is was something that went wrong or take it as a moment and use it for positive. In 2023, learn from every experience and use it for your benefit.
2022 was a year of good and bad, ups and downs, but we made it. What are you taking from 2022 into the new year? How will 2022 help make 2023 your best year yet?
Erika Brooks is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in the state of Virginia. She received her Masters of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University. She is the owner of Enlightenment Counseling Services, LLC. She is also a co-author of “PEARL: Wisdom and Advice for Emerging Leaders”. Contact her are [email protected]
