A Year in Review—Five Key Learnings from 2020

Saying 2020 was a difficult year might be the understatement of the century. So much of what we knew or accepted either stopped or was turned upside down. And, tragically, many people leave this year with less loved ones than they had before.

Despite the challenges, we have moved forward through this new normal together. The past year led us to redefine our focus, speak up against racial injustice and care more deeply for our neighbors. As we close the chapter on 2020, it’s appropriate that we all take some time for personal reflection.  

During this watershed year, here are a few key takeaways I have gleaned. I hope they will be useful to you as well:

1.    Flexibility is Key: Before this transition, many of us worked to stay on top of tasks and holding others accountable. Now, we see things differently. While we still have high expectations for our community, we must become more understanding and patient during the implementation process. Becoming reasonably flexible during this disruption in our lives has become a significant aspect of pressing forward.

2.    The Work isn’t Over: Our heartbreak over the deaths of Black Americans should live beyond the summer of 2020. Sadly, racism still exists. Until we get our house in order by combating the monster of our society known as racial injustice, the foundation of our home will never be stable.

3.    Be Consistent in Words and Actions: This year, leaders were placed under the magnifying glass on how they shepherded those entrusted in their care. When there is a well communicated plan, people trust your intentions, even if they disagree with you. Frequent changes and backpedaling helps no one. The most successful leaders of this year understood the significance of matching words with deeds.

4.    Set Boundaries: Boundaries are set to not only create a safe space for the individual but to inform others of your accessibility. Boundaries shouldn’t be viewed as negative. They’re imperative to keep all relationships in balance.

5.    Practice Gratitude: In times of crisis, it’s vital to cultivate thankfulness. The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that those who practice gratitude are:

·      More generous and helpful

·      More likely to offer emotional support

·      Less likely to judge their own success in comparison to the success of others

If ever there was a time to practice gratitude, it’s now.

Looking back, the lessons we’ve learned—about health, resilience, equality and our shared history as Americans—are lessons that will hopefully remain with us for the rest of our lives. We may not have all the answers, and the toll it has taken may be great, but we will end the year with a level of growth that could have only come from what we’ve experienced.