She Strengthens

Ringing in a New Era of Self-Awareness

As the clock struck midnight on December 31, 2020, the world bid farewell to a tumultuous year. For many, the usual fanfare and festivities were replaced with a somber, quiet reflection. The COVID-19 pandemic had taken its toll, and the uncertainty of the future loomed large.

A New Year, Same Uncertainty

As January 2021 dawned, the sense of unease lingered. The vaccine rollout was slow, and the pandemic showed no signs of abating. The usual excitement and optimism that accompany the start of a new year were tempered by the harsh realities of the world.

Rethinking Resolutions

For those who typically set New Year’s resolutions, the pandemic presented a unique challenge. How could one plan for the future when the present was so uncertain? The usual goals and challenges seemed trivial in the face of such uncertainty. I, too, found myself struggling to muster the enthusiasm for goal-setting, feeling instead like I was stuck in a rut of anxiety and cynicism.

Embracing the Unknown

As I navigated this unfamiliar emotional landscape, I began to realize that perhaps the most important thing was not to force myself into a predetermined mold. Instead, I needed to allow myself to feel the weight of the past year, to mourn the losses, and to process my emotions. It was okay to wallow in angst, to feel the sadness and anger that came with it.

The Power of Catharsis

According to Psychology Today, trying to numb sadness can also numb joy. By allowing myself to truly feel my emotions, I was able to experience a sense of catharsis, a crucial step in moving forward. This wasn’t about giving up; it was about facing my emotions head-on and emerging stronger on the other side.

A Fresh Start

When February arrived, I felt a sense of freedom wash over me. Empowered by my month of reflection, I was ready to take on the rest of the year. I made big decisions, some more momentous than others, to prioritize my happiness. And I realized that goal-setting wasn’t limited to January 1st; I could start anew at any time.

Breaking Free from Tradition

In North American culture, goal-setting is often tied to the new year. But why should it be? We can commit to self-improvement at any time, whether it’s tracking our progress over a few months or joining a challenge mid-year. The key is to start from where we are, not wait for an arbitrary date to make a change.

A New Perspective

If you’re feeling hopeless, know that you’re not alone. And know that embracing your emotions can lead to renewal. Don’t be afraid to take your time, to wallow in your feelings, and to emerge stronger on the other side. You can start anew whenever you’re ready, and that’s a powerful thing.