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2020 was a crazy year full of tumultuous happenings, wasn’t it? While the coronavirus pandemic took over our lives, things carried on in a mishmash way that was, to say the least, quite stressful for most. 2021 will surely see some of the ramifications of this terrible time, but will also hopefully see some joy and normality return too.
How are you feeling going into 2021? You might feel tired, scared, worried or downright sick of it all by now. In this blog you’ll be reminded why you can and will smile wider in 2021, despite the circumstances that might wipe the smile off your face.
Digging deep and finding positivity
Positivity is everywhere if we look hard enough for it. While the world has seemed to fall apart, it is the brave people around the world who have fought to keep things going that we must look to now. Whatever your situation, digging deep and finding the positives will allow you to process the negativity around you while striving to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Of course, this is easier said than done, so how can we put positivity into practical action?
Journal.
Journaling is a highly therapeutic and helpful tool for exorcising intense feelings. If you are stressed, worried and sad right now, journaling can help get these negative feelings out of your system and onto paper. Alternatively, journaling about positive experiences you are having can help make them feel more powerful and real. For example, if you have had a bad day and feel like giving up, you could make a note in your journal of everything you are grateful for. This will remind you of the good in your life, despite anything negative happening too. Nothing’s ever all good or all bad – so try to note down the good in any bad situation.
Speak things into existence.
If you have never used affirming mantras, 2021 is the perfect time to start. Speaking helpful mantras that can affirm your self-confidence, growth and positivity is the perfect way to start or end a busy day. Returning to the basics and speaking truths to yourself is highly beneficial for your health and wellbeing as we move through these difficult times.
Invest in yourself.
If you are in a position to do so, investing in yourself somehow is a great way to smile wider in 2021. Money can’t buy happiness, but investing, even in a small way, in your own wellbeing is a positive way to affirm that you believe in yourself and that you matter. This could be something as simple as a new coat, a pair of shoes or a plant for your home! Alternatively, you could make a bigger investment, such as having Smile Design alignment treatment, buying a new car or investing in property.
Staying in touch with your loved ones
Although the coronavirus pandemic began a year ago, many locations are still under tight restrictions due to the continued spread of the virus. If you are unable to see loved ones as the new year rolls in, you might be finding this challenging for your mental health and emotional wellbeing. How can you combat these sad feelings? Here are a few ways to stay in touch safely.
Write letters!
Sometimes the old ways are the best, and when it comes to staying connected from afar, letter writing is a very romantic and fun way to do it. Of course, with modern technology, we can simply and easily call or text each other any time. But writing letters to your loved ones requires a little more care, patience and an element of anticipation which will entice you. Plus, you can keep your letters forever, harking back to these times in the future and remembering the conversations you had.
Online activities
If kicking it old school isn’t your thing, you can always play online games with friends and family, such as Jackbox, Words with Friends or the popular new game Among Us! These will help you stay connected and laugh with friends, even in isolation. Feeling like you can still hang out with people is vital, even if you can’t hug them close in these unprecedented times.
Final Thoughts
If you struggled in 2020 and are looking to find positivity in 2021, you aren’t alone. Communities all around the world are struggling to cope with all that’s going on. Using this helpful guide, you might just be able to smile a little wider in 2021, finding positivity everywhere you turn.