As we heralded in the New Year and bid farewell to 2020 amidst a magnificent display of
fireworks at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva, Fiji, I was overcome with a range of mixed emotions. Gratitude for the grace given by God to make it through to the dawning of a new year, excitement and anticipation for what the new year brings and a tinge of sadness for those that we leave behind as the cycle of life continues for us fortunate to have made it this far.
I also observed with interest the many different responses to 2020 – some say good riddance, and some have outrightly cursed the year and the change COVID19 has forced upon us all, almost hopeful that the changes we have been forced to live with in 2020 will miraculously disappear as we crossed over into the new year.
However, most of us know deep down, that life as we know it will never be the same after 2020. We have survived the year and come out equipped with an abundance of information on how to wash your hands, how to avoid human touch and interaction and how to wear masks in style. In many parts of the world, wearing of masks are now mandatory in public spaces and virtual meetings, conversations and parties have become somewhat a norm. At some point in the year, I heard someone say – “I will never take for granted the opportunity to hug another human being again”
Upon reflection, 2020 for me has been nothing short of incredible – it’s a year where I saw exponential growth in influence, in my business and also on a personal level. The year 2020 presented opportunities to influence and to work alongside individuals who may never have considered personal development and leadership training as necessary pre-COVID19 and gave me the opportunity to meet people I may have never met. Up until 2020, my work as a development consultant had me travelling for over 6 months of the year, so I have never really been present in my country of residence long enough to build networks and explore business opportunities.
Albert Einstein is known to have said – “In the midst of every crisis, lies great opportunity” and my hope for you in 2021 is that you will find the opportunity in the midst of the crisis, seize it and make this your best year yet.
One of key tenets of personal development is reflection – taking time to reflect on your day, your week, your month and your year and using your reflections to guide you forward. Towards the end of 2020, one of the mentors from the John Maxwell Mentorship Team, Ray Popham shared with us a Four Quadrant Reflection Model, which I would like to share with you.
This simple model of reflection is a useful tool to Review 2020, Remember the wins and take time to celebrate or grieve your losses, Release and let go of the things and the people you need to let go of and Renew your commitment to the things you need to carry through to 2021.
As I reviewed 2020, I realized that I have neglected this space, where I blog and share my growth and possibly help you to grow to become the best version of yourself. So my commitment to you in 2021 is to share blog updates at least once a month. My hope is that these words will encourage you to seize the opportunities that life will present you with in 2021 and that you will live out your purpose and unlock the greatness and creativity within you.
Be encouraged my friend. Commit to growing what is within your control which is you and the rest will align. As my mentor and friend John Maxwell says – “The only way to know that tomorrow will get better is by making yourself better.”
May 2021 be better for you in every way!
Warmly,
Ana
Comments