Seven prompts to close out 2020 and prepare to bring in 2021
As the new year beckons, I find it valuable to consider what the past year has taught me and how I might use that knowledge to create a better future. Here are seven prompts that I find useful to focus my thinking. I hope you find them helpful.
Beverly Landais PCC
The clock ticks and time passes. The year draws to a close. Soon 2020 will be a memory. Despite the desperately sad events of the past year, there have been bright spots of hope and inspiration. This blog reflects on the fortitude, kindness and generosity of the human spirit when at its best. Then suggests seven prompts to help you close out 2020 and prepare to bring in 2021.
Some of the bright spots that jump out for me include the viral kindness postcard campaign started by Becky Wass, which encouraged people to offer their support, friendship and hope to others. Who can forget Captain Sir Tom Moore raising over £32 million for NHS charities by completing 100 laps of his garden ahead of his 100th birthday? What about Joe Wicks, aka ‘The Body Coach’ devoted his time to keep the nation fit throughout lockdown with virtual PE lessons. Then, cartoonist Charlie Mackesy dedicated his drawings and inspirational words to the people on the front line battling against Covid-19. His messages conveying compassion, kindness and courage can be seen around the UK from hospitals to schools.
My mood lifts with appreciation when remembering the fortitude, kindness and generosity of spirit exemplified by these people. I am also grateful for positive personal experiences during the year. Such as the way my neighbours have rallied to help and support each other. The cheerful ‘thanks’ and smiles exchanged with strangers as we step out of the way. How my local store staff ensure shopping is a safe experience sweetened by consistently friendly service. I also valued the opportunity to volunteer my coaching skills as part of the Farillio campaign to help small businesses survive the pandemic.
As 2021 beckons, I value this time to pause and consider what the past year has taught me and how I might use that knowledge to create a better future. Here are seven prompts that I find useful to focus my thinking. I hope you find them helpful too:
- What do I know now that I did not know before?
- What are the best things about my life that I wish to build upon?
- What am I ready to let go of that is no longer necessary to me?
- What feels like unfinished business that I would like to pursue in the coming year?
- What new doors are opening to me?
- What are some action steps that I will take and what resources am I going to need?
- What piece of advice would I give myself to take forwards?
Take your time as you consider these prompts. It has been an incredibly tough year. Be kind to yourself as well as to others as you think about what has happened. The mind is always alerted to difficulties, threats and worries. Pausing to reflect on what you have in life helps redress the balance promoting confidence, self-efficacy and a resourceful mindset.
Use these prompts to help you close out the old year and plan for the new. As you do this, perhaps keep in mind Charlie Mackesy’s hopeful words – ‘Don’t give up, the storm ends’.
Now that is an encouraging thought.
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Sources:
https://www.pointsoflight.gov.uk/
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/explainers-53053337
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAxW1XT0iEJo0TYlRfn6rYQ
https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/culture/article/charlie-mackesy-interview
Beverly Landais PCC
Certified Personal & Team Coach: enabling people to be at their resourceful best
We live in an ever-changing dynamic world. At best, this can be exhilarating and provide excellent opportunities for personal growth. At worst, it can be exhausting and stressful as you try to do it all, which can lead to the feeling that you are doing nothing well. Maybe you are in such a situation? Perhaps you have reached a point where you long to create the life that you want rather than the one that is happening? If so, I may be the right coach to support you. My purpose is simple. I work with people to help them be at their resourceful best. I bring all of my expertise to the service of my clients. My skill set includes 30 years of experience in business, including board level. As a Professional Certified Coach and Positive Psychology Practitioner, I can help you to think your options through, make better choices and do the things that promote wellbeing, bring personal as well as professional satisfaction and make you happy. I am particularly skilled in supporting those who are at a crossroads in their life. My coaching approach can help you gain a clear understanding of your values, motivators, drivers, strengths and consider the impact of blind spots – and what you can do to mitigate these. I work via video calls, by phone and email. Should you wish to arrange a 30-minute complimentary discovery session, please contact me via connect@beverlylandais.co.uk
