To say that 2020 has been an eventful year would be an understatement. We have witnessed political battles to environmental issues and most of all, our lives have been turned upside down due to COVID-19. I took the time the other day to write down everything that has happened in 2020. I found myself feeling somewhat defeated, 2020 has gone nothing like I had hoped. It is the kind of feeling that I think many of us have been experiencing, like “how much more can I take!?”. As I sat and thought back on the year and how it has affected me I began to change my perspective.
Perhaps 2020 was the year we needed, a year where we learn to appreciate hardship and the lessons it brings. I think it is important to “look on the bright side” of things no matter how difficult our current situation is. Despite the opportunities I have been deprived of, I have gained many valuable lessons. For me, COVID-19 has taught me that although being alone is hard, I can thrive on my own. Moreover, I have realized how strong we are when we put our minds together to overcoming hardship. We all share a common goal, which is to have life go back to “normal”. I believe that this has fostered a sense of togetherness and collectivism, despite the distance we must maintain from one another. Additionally, I think that it has been an important year of appreciating what we had before the virus. I personally took for granted the ability to go out with friends, attend school, and travel. I believe that once the world has returned back to simpler times, we will be better equipped to appreciate the right to do all the things that we now lack.
It is easy to fall into patterns of negative thinking and defeat when thinking back on the year we have had. Instead, I believe that we should try to consider it a year of strength and appreciate the hardships that we have faced. Take the time to think about what you have learned, how you have grown and what you have realized during this year. Don’t forget to take care of yourself mentally and physically during the holidays; appreciate your loved ones and the year 2020.
Note: The Free Your Mind Mental Health Society is an independent youth-led organization. The contents of this blog are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. In the event of a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 911 or other local emergency numbers immediately.