1. Happiness is a choice
When the first lockdown was announced I remember having this overwhelming feeling of being trapped. My whole life I've relished in the freedom to go wherever I want at the drop of a hat. Being told not to leave my local area felt like a prison sentence. But I am resilient and adapted to only going as far as my legs would take me. I discovered hidden gems in my neighbourhood and found pleasure in the small things like getting an ice block from the supermarket or reading my book in the sun. I chose to be happy in the now.
2. Healthy habits are invaluable
The one thing that has kept me grounded through the ups and downs of 2020 has been my daily routine. I added a visualisation meditation in during my lockdown and it only took a few weeks to turn it into a habit, and eight months for things to come to fruition. By prioritising quality sleep, eating a diet of mostly unprocessed food, and consistently exercising I've been able to keep a strong mind, body and spirit throughout uncertain times.
3. The universe gives you what you need
After studying my health coaching certificate I had high hopes of transitioning out of corporate life into doing this as a full time job. However as money was getting disastrously low I got a call from a recruiter for a job with a great team, using my skills and experience. Coaching is still my passion but I can go back to building savings and investing, which is also important for my future.
4. Surround yourself with people who uplift you
I was reminded of this recently during a yoga class with a theme of ‘sangha’ or community. Spend your time with people who uplift you and ditch those who don’t. This year people have come and gone in my life but i’m lucky to have consistent deep friendships which I value more than anything. Knowing that you can tell someone anything, without judgement is important.
5. I can do anything I put my mind to
I wanted to learn how to teach yoga, so I packed my bags for India. I wanted to pursue my passion of health and wellness, so I studied health coaching. I wanted to serve others using my newfound coaching skills so I started my own business. And I decided it was time to buy a house so I saw a mortgage advisor and got the ball rolling. Each of these things involved the risk of failure but I did it anyway because when you can see the positive in situations good things come to you.
5. Invest in yourself and it will pay itself off tenfold
This year I studied health coaching, virtually attended a lifestyle medicine conference, did Yale’s Science of Wellbeing course, Brendon Burchard’s 7 Day Entrepeneur’s Challenge, Sarah McKay’s Brain Bootcamp and read numerous books on topics relating to wellness. I’ve taken something away from each and added tools to my toolbox which are invaluable in conversations with friends and clients.
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