It’s that time of year. We are particularly excited to be saying goodbye to 2020, a year that kept finding ways to surprise us, not always in a good way. We hope that 2021 will be better, but even if it isn’t everything we want it to be, we are no longer as vulnerable and scared as we were 10 months ago. There is a vaccine on the horizon, and a hope that we can reshape the world into a better place.

So let’s look at some things I am taking with me into 2021.

1. Outside is good. I’ve always been a fan of walking outside, but now I’ve become a real fanatic about it. Neither rain nor snow nor sleet will keep me from at least a quick daily walk. We haven’t hit -40 yet, but I have warm clothes. It’s become extremely important to me to get outside at least once a day. It’s about my mental health, not just physical. Are you able to do the same?

2. Shopping is not for entertainment. I haven’t been someone who shops for entertainment in a few years – when I was, I was in the throes of depression. But this year I’ve really learned to get in and out of the store with the things that we need, rather than wandering the aisles in a daze and wasting hours of my day. I’m privileged to be able to order lots of other things online, but just that little extra step is helpful with impulse control. My credit card has noticed. If you are someone who is missing that entertainment, I feel for you. What could you do instead?

3. Human contact is precious. Now that crossing the street when someone approaches you on the sidewalk is considered courteous and thoughtful, actual human conversation with someone you don’t live with is a rare and wonderful gift. Zoom is awesome and we are very grateful for the ability to talk safely with people near and far, but face to face time has become much more exciting than it used to be. Or is it just me?

I’m sure I can think of many more lessons I’ve learned and will take into 2021 with me, but this will do for now. What’s on your list?