5 Ways to Build Your Resilience in 2021

If there’s anything 2020 taught us, it was how to quickly adapt and persevere. As the world seemed to close down, we stayed home striving to find the perfect balance between earning an income, teaching our children, caring for our loved ones at a distance, and trying to make the best out of an avalanche of less-than-desirable and some downright impossible situations.

What badge of honor did we earn for muddling through 2020? A super sparkly, glittery one hinting at a well-deserved reprieve in 2021. Now that we’re all here, this year is already demanding resilience, a capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.

Here are 5 ways to build your resilience in 2021:

Plan Ahead

Upon waking in the morning, before you turn on the news or check your phone or turn on your computer, find a small notebook or a scrap of paper and write down your order for the day as if it already happened. “I nailed the presentation.” “I scored the winning goal.” “I received a $25,000 raise.” “I made a difference in his life.” “I am the best mother.” Anything. Order it up in writing first thing in the morning and see how much better your day goes!

Control How You React

Actively look for opportunities in your life to feel how your reactions affect others. There is no one on this planet who has control over their life; the only thing you CAN control is how you react to life. If someone cuts you off in traffic, count to 5 and choose how to react (as opposed to setting an angry vibe by yelling and freaking out your kids). Life doesn’t always have to be hard, but it will undoubtedly throw challenging curveballs. Take notice and realize that it’s up to you to frame each challenge as an opportunity to learn from and grow.

Identify What Matters To You

At the end of each day, write down 5 things (big or small) that you were proud of or thankful for. Enjoyed that hot cup of coffee? Write it down. Found $5 in a pocket? Write it down! Squeezed in a revitalizing 20 minute workout? Write it down! Finished work on time? Write it down! Got a legit hug from your feisty teenager? Write it down!

After a few days, you’ll start seeing patterns and themes of what is truly important to you.

Invest In Yourself

Take care of your body, mind, and spirit. You only get one body in this lifetime and maintenance is required, just like the sweet ride parked in your garage. Acupuncture is an amazing holistic experience that allows your body to heal, your mind to rest, and your spirit to lift. The best part is all you have to do is show up and lie down in a comfortable room for a few minutes. Easy!

Look for Grace

Who do you need to forgive today? Yourself? Your husband? Your wife? Your child? No one is perfect. No one sees the world like you do. Extend grace and forgiveness. Holding onto anger or resentment towards someone or something only hurts you. You deserve better.