Dr. Patricia R. Cruz, DSW, MSW, LCSW
Finally!
I wonder if anyone will join me in a collective sigh of relief because the year 2020 is finally over. It was a tough year for everyone. There is no shortage of deeply personal accounts of grief, isolation, depression and despair. As we stand on the cusp of the new year, let us join together in strength knowing relief is on the way. We remember our family, friends and neighbors that still need our prayers and helping hands.
In years past we have been encouraged to look back over the year and reflect on success, failure, remaining opportunities. In all honesty, that would be challenge right now. How about you? Are you running into 2021 with reckless abandon, fiercely trying to get 2020 behind you? You are certainly not alone. We can count on time passing and we will soon be wedded with a brand-new year. We have never loved a new year so much that we had not met yet.
Revitalization
We sincerely hope 2021 is your year of revitalization and renewal. Without making any giant claims about resolutions, this is an opportunity to do less might be more this year. Like making some small personal choices that will have giant impact in your life. Paying attention to the seconds and minutes of our day, rather than just the weeks and months. Revitalization and renewal happen there, in the moments of our lives. What I am suggesting for this new year is cheaper the pricey resolutions and will have a higher value in the long run, our lives depend on revitalization and renewal. I believe incorporating a few changes daily over the next few weeks, then again and again; will refocus and regulate your mood, emotions and energy.
Personal Revitalization
Personal revitalization commits one’s effort to new life, perspective and small changes with long term value. The outcome is a better you for 2021 and beyond. Renewal is taking steps to assess and restore mind, body and spirit. What will it take for you to heal emotionally, love without limits and live a healthier life? The new year is full of opportunity to start on the path of living the life you want.
Lesson Learned
We did learn in 2020, even with the best made plans, there is the unexpected. Unexpected events can impact every layer of our world including our mind, body and soul. At times, all we had was the strength of our spirit to hold on to, so much of what we were familiar with, material things did not matter. I believe there is an urgency for self-renewal; to spend time doing the things calm and de-stress, improving the moments with loved ones and growing unconditional positive regard for others. So, what kinds of things can you do now, wherever you are, to help revitalize and renew yourself? Here are 10 steps that will help you get started. Have fun and some R & R!â¤ï¸
10 Steps To Personal Revitalization
- Keep a daily gratitude journal; write everything down
- Learn the signs you are resisting change
- Take several deep, cleansing breaths
- Find 5 minutes of peace and quiet
- Realize your passion and talent
- Listen more, talk less
- Name your emotion
- Say yes…. say no
- Protect your time
- Read something
Happy New Year! May the new year bring the revitalization and renewal you truly deserve.
*We are accepting new clients at The River Wellness LLC. New groups are also starting soon.
