20 LESSONS I HAVE LEARNT IN 2020

OH MY! Can we believe that 2020 is coming to an end?! 2020, will sure be a year to remember and the impact it had on our lives is definitely broad and different for everybody, however one thing that we can all share is saying that 2020 allowed us to align our true passions and purposes and taught us many tough lessons along the way. So I wanted to share 20 lessons I learnt in 2020 and I encourage you to do so too!

1. Everything happens for a reason

The power of hindsight is incredible and although you may not be able to see it now, things will always work out one way or another and often it is for the better..

2. Don’t waste your energy on comparing yourself to others

We are all perfectly imperfect and comparison and being harsh on yourself is a waste of energy you can channel into something positive. Remind yourself of how amazing you are, just as you are

3. Let go of hate and jealousy it only weighs you down

These emotions are so toxic, making you in a negative frame of mind doing no good to yourself and those around you. Learn to move past these emotions, do it for yourself

4. Time with your loved ones is precious

Whether this be your family or friends, being in lockdown has taught us all, who we truly value in our lives and how important human interaction is. So make an effort to keep in touch frequently

5. You can do anything you out your mind to

The power of the mind is unbelievable, and no matter how tough things get you can always find a way to achieve your goals, with a positive frame of mind and resilience you can do it, so don’t give up. 

6. ‘Just don’t worry about it’ is one of the most frustrating sentences to hear!

As somebody with anxiety, this sentence only triggers my worries, sometimes things get out of our control, but you just can't switch off your feelings, so feel all the feels you need but don’t sit in them for too long.

7. Find somebody you trust to reach out to

Having a solid support network throughout the tough times, not necessarily there to fix your ‘problems’ just there as somebody to vent to whenever you need. Even if they see you at your craziest downwards spirals!

8. Going out to eat food is the best!

Whether it be breakfast, lunch or dinner, going out for some good food is honestly the best and one of the things I missed most in isolation!

9. Move your body

Doesn matter whether it be a slow walk, yoga, HIIT workout, pilates or any other exercise moving your body daily does wonders for your mental health allowing you to be more productive

10. Do what you want and don’t worry about what other think

Let go of the fear of judgement, and do what you know will make you happy. If you feel comfortable with it and know it will benefit you DO IT, don’t worry about judgement!

11. Doesn’t matter what others are doing, focus on what matters to you

Just because what you are doing doesn’t align with those around you doesn't make it wrong, we are all different and needed to play our part.

12. Instagram is just a highlights reel

Don’t compare your behind the scenes with somebodys highlights reel, life is not a race and comparing yourself to people you don't know does no good for anybody. Also remember you have the power to unfollow people who don’t make you feel great

13. Don’t surround yourself with negativity

You soak up the energy from those around you, don’t waste your time surrounded by those who are glass half empty. It will rub off on you and not benefit you in any way.

14. Be kind to others you never know what somebody is going through

People tend to keep quiet especially if they are dealing with something difficult, so remember to be kind to everybody you never know how much of an impact you can have on their day

15. It is okay not to have everything sorted out

You have time, it's okay to change your mind at the last minute and realize that you don’t have everything sorted out as you previously thought. You will get there in the end.

16. Take time for you

Just breathe and don't forget to fill up your own cup, aiming to do something for yourself each day can keep you sane!

17. Hustle culture is toxic

It's not fun to be busy all of the time, smashing goals and working hard if it comes at the cost of burnout, causing a decline in your mental and emotional wellbeing. Learn the symptoms of burnout and don't be too harsh on yourself

18. You are allowed to change and grow

You don't have to be the same person, who likes the same things as they did three years ago or even a month ago, you don't need permission to grow and change as a person and those around you who are truly there for you will understand. 

19. You are allowed to be proud of yourself

Don't let people tell you that you are self absorbed. It's important to celebrate the small wins in life, and celebrating your successes is important

20. Life doesn't happen to you it happens for you

Despite the overwhelming negatives of this year, there are many lessons to be learnt from 2020 take a deeper look to find any shifts in perspective or revelations experienced. Remember that everything in life is happening for you and has a purpose

Wow, that list sure was a crazy long one however I really encourage you before this year comes to a close to reflect on all that you have learnt this year, the growth you have experienced and how far you have come. Please let me know some of your lessons by tagging me on instagram at @shining.xo.mia or send me a message I would love to hear from you. 

Wishing you a very happy new year, 

Mia xx