As we come to the close of 2020, I take time to be still and reflect on the year just gone. This, I know, is a habitual routine for some, though this year, WOW!!!, where do I begin? It has been undeniably an unprecedented and incredibly challenging time for us all. 2020 will now be a defining year in the history books that our children and their children will read about for many years to come.
As I reflect on my own personal emotionally-charged, or should I say emotionally challenging year, with some fantastic moments, I also cannot but help cast a thought to others who have also experienced such a difficult journey this year.
My journey had been a roller coaster of feelings from hurt, sadness, depression, feeling helpless, not feeling worthy, even crumbling, as I became overwhelmed. This had me many times questioning my own mental health and how easy the balance of the emotional weight on the scales can so easily tip in a downward spiral. I questioned how much more could I take before slipping in the wrong direction. The internal and external chatter was weaving around in my head. Sometimes slowly, at times very fast as I tried to grasp the messages. It proved so difficult at times. One morning I woke up and I heard “STOP”. I heard that word clearly! And I did, STOP! I became braver and stepped off the treadmill. It was time for me to reconnect, with me again.
During this necessary ‘Me Time’ I re-learnt to listen, to feel and just be me. It was amazing! In fact, a deep cathartic experience. I had forgotten about some of the lessons of the past due to all that was going on around me. A particular lesson that resonated with me is what I call ‘Lesson 101’ - whilst working on your inner self, try and surround yourself with people who understand you and care enough about you to ride the journey with you, even if it maybe from a distance. You see the simplest call, text, check in, can truly transform a not so good day into a day of hope.
I truly believe that I am not alone with this bag of emotional worries. Though what I have learnt, is that as my worries continued to show up, I had to change my mindset. In doing so, I was able to manage my emotions differently. I wasn’t able to see this so clearly, until I got some support, therapeutic counselling, a highly recommended way to help direct you, with gentle guidance. We do know, what we know, it’s just at times we need a gentle reminder.
I began to dig deep and toil the earth, until I grounded myself and from there re-planted the seeds of my authenticity which had become blurred. I then began to grow again, this time with 'me' first. I now acknowledge, accept, then work through the challenges that are presented to me.
When I used to hear the saying 2020, instantly the word ‘vision’ came to my mind and I cannot help but feel that part of this year has helped me to look at things through a new lens. This new lens has helped me to focus on growing into a better person for myself then others.
“I Am … Sandra!" The founder of “I Am …” Affirmations Cards for the Mind, Body & Soul.
A pivotal moment in my life, led me to the creation and birth of my affirmation cards. Affirmations that I myself used on a daily basis to help move me from a position of despair to become elevated and more energized for life, no matter what challenges I may face. A process that requires commitment to self. It’s all about promoting positive self-talk and being able to recognize and affirm our qualities.
No better time than now, do we need this as our mental health continues to be challenged from the journey of 2020. The ongoing uncertainty and worry with this world wide pandemic and other key events, such as the cold visual killing of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor’s murder, the Black Lives Matter campaign, country lockdowns as COVID-19 erupted our areas and the many different restrictions that we have to adhere to, being furloughed, losing jobs, businesses closing, along with not being able to see family and loved ones. Wow the impact is so great!!
It is now time to equip ourselves with tools to support us as we enter 2021. Taking time out for self-care is definitely the number 1 non negotiator going forward.
To be able to function, love others, work etc, we have to put ourselves at the forefront and fill our vessel with goodness. Through nurturing ourselves, positive thoughts/self-talk, taking care of our body, being mindful of what we eat/drink and surrounding ourselves with people that support and care about us, is what is required to help promote our own positive emotional and physical well-being.
Some of my life lessons from 2020
- Love and take care of myself first, then give to others.
- Be very proud of where I am at.
- Being still helped me to grow.
- Acceptance is key.
- Not everyone is for you and that really is okay.
- Determination, dedication, self-discipline, hard work and overcoming obstacles will keep you on track to achieving your goals. Stay focused. Taken from “I Am … Determined" Affirmation Cards
- Practice what you preach.
- Belief in self, rewards YOU.
A big thank you for all those who supported me during my journey of creating “I Am ...” Affirmation Cards. I truly appreciate the feedback, support and promotion for the business.
I had a couple of key events to show case the “I Am …” Affirmation Cards that had to be cancelled due to the updated COVID-19 restrictions, which will hopefully now, take place in the new year. The organisation are working on so many fantastic projects supporting both the community and small businesses and I am really excited to be included. I am also proud to say that the feedback from the buyers and retailers have been very positive and also complimented me, on the quality of the cards and packaging. This means so much to me, as the printers printed exactly what I visualized.
A huge big thanks to my crew that have helped, encouraged & championed me consistently.
For 2021, I am really looking forward to growing the business.
Stay connected with me on my website and Instagram inspiremewithsandra for more info along with future product releases.
Stay Blessed
Sandra
Inspire Me With ...
31st December 2020