30 Life Lessons from Unforgettable Pandemic Year 2020 for a Better 2021

"Ultimately, the greatest lesson that COVID-19 can teach humanity is that we are all in this together."

2020 – A year to forget, but one that we will always remember. 2020 has surprised, rather shocked us beyond our imagination. 

It has brought so much learning, realizations, ups, and downs in our life. 

In January 2020, most of us had new year resolutions & goals – be it at work, places we would like to visit, or people we would like to see. And within a few weeks, the coronavirus changed everything.

At both the individual and collective level, this has been a time of so many losses and such deep uncertainty and anxiety.

“Life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient.”

But in all the situations we’ve faced this year, there’s been a sense of community. Every event in our lives has given us a reason to keep growing and living life. 

A lot can be said about 2020, except that it doesn't teach us some important things about life, society, and ourselves. I know we all have learned the most valuable life lessons during the last couple of months, and here is a list of what I have experienced from my life, a discussion with multiple people & reading. 

30 Life Lessons from 2020

1. Nature is universal power and can change the world anytime.
2. Health is the first wealth, not just another wealth.
3. We can work from any location; we need wi-fi, laptop, mobile, and network.
4. Good immunity is required to save a life.
5. Self-care is a priority, not a privilege.
6. Freedom is not free, and it should never be taken for granted.
7. Rest & recovery is required to perform best.
8. Family cannot be taken for granted.
9. Our needs are far less than our wants.
10. Financial health is essential. The money you save today will save you tomorrow. 
11. Forgiveness is the ultimate strength that we can develop. Remember, forgiveness is for yourself, not the other person.
12. Have always something to look forward to.
13. Gratitude is a miracle to bring abundance to life, so Count Your Blessings every day.
14. Building the right Mental health is the hour of need.
15. There’s no shame in asking for help.
16. Even when it feels like there’s plenty, time & energy are limited resources.
17. Adversity creates both problems and opportunities. You see what you focus on. 
18. Having a fantastic morning routine is a blessing to make the day productive & live life fully.
19. Be Hopeful. Hope is the only thing stronger than fear.
20. Nothing stays still. Change is inevitable.
21. Be Kind. Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Don't be judgemental.
22. Your knowledge is your most valuable asset. Investing in your knowledge is the best investment t you can make because your whole future depends on it.
23. Respond, not react. Emotional intelligence is the key to making better life decisions.
24. Give selflessly; the world needs it.
25. Actions speak louder than words. Stop talking and start doing.
26. Control your anxiety before it controls you.
27. You're in control of your mind, time, and destiny; you need to realize that.
28. We're capable of much more, we think.
29. Mindfulness is a superpower, and you can get it right now.
30. Prayer is a powerful strength-builder.

“In the face of adversity, we have a choice. We can be bitter, or we can be better. The choice is ours"

This pandemic sure has brought out our interests on a lighter note – we’ve seen chefs, artists, dancers, and writers who are doctors, engineers, and corporates executive by profession. It looks like we have found what we really like & love to do… At the end of the day, all that matters is what you like & love to do and your happiness while doing what you like!!!

2020 wasn’t just a year of a pandemic; it was also the year of awakening. What 2020 has taught me might be different from what it taught you. I believe these 30 lessons of 2020 make sense in your life and set you up for some great planning & doing around 2021 being the greatest year of your life yet.

“Challenge and adversity are meant to help you know who you are. Storms hit your weakness, but unlock your true strength.”

What did you learn in 2020, and what New Year’s resolutions will you make for 2021? 

Care to share? Let me know in the comments….