A new year is more than an opportunity to flip the calendar. It is a psychological milestone – a push for us to set new intentions, focus on new goals and chart new paths.
While 2020 did bring with it a fair share of stagnation, stillness and social distancing, perhaps this break was exactly what we needed to pause, reflect and do the inner work we never have enough time for. As the year draws to a close, and I look back at it, what I see is a year of immense personal growth and transformation.
Among the many things I am grateful for, I list below some of my most cherished lessons from the year that was. I invite you to go through my list and share your gratitude list as well in the comments. After all, the more you express gratitude for the good things in life, the more you attract them.
My energy is precious
The lockdown and the resultant WFH situation made us all put up boundaries and remain ensconced in our homes. As someone social, I did miss meeting people – be it catching up with a coworker for a quick chat in the office pantry, making plans with friends on weekends or simply sharing a cup of coffee with a neighbor. However, after the initial few weeks, I noticed that my mood was much more stable, my days smoother and my energies were uplifted. Over time, I realised that by not stepping out of home and limiting my interactions to only those I vibed with, I was shielding myself from unnecessary drama.
What did this mean? More meaningful phone calls and fewer draining interactions.
And now, I am so happy in this place that I have become fiercely protective of my energy.
What spells “self-love” better than this?
Home is a feeling, not a place
The fact that we were stuck indoors for months at end, undoubtedly made us all realise how important it was to create a space we loved – a place that is not just called home, but one that truly feels like it. Somewhere you look forward to going back, at the end of the day – a place you can call my own. 2020 made me truly grateful for having a place I absolutely adore. Not once did I get bored of being alone at home. Amidst all the chaos in the world, this is where I found peace.
The cherry on top? Being able to spend quality time with family – something I had not been able to do for years.
Learning something new is ❤
Those who know me know that I have always been inclined towards art. As a kid, I would spend hours drawing, sketching and coloring. A few years back, I picked up doodling. And in 2020, for the very first time, I decided to try my hand at painting. I decided to make a huge mandala for my room, something my mom had wanted me to make. And now, I’m hooked! I’ve painted a few large pieces and I don’t plan to stop painting anytime soon.
Do let me know what you think of these and do follow my art page SoulArt with Sonam.
What you focus on, expands
Sometime in March, I randomly picked out a Tarot card and posted a collective guidance message on my Instagram. What followed was tons of appreciation and followers. Most importantly, my daily card messages became a ritual for an entire bunch of people who found inspiration and solace in my messages. I also learnt new techniques n tarot, completed an online course and got multiple new decks! My biggest achievement was relaunching my YouTube channel where I now post Tarot videos (do subscribe to support me). Pouring my heart and soul into something I love made my practice grow much more than would be possible otherwise. I am truly grateful for the extra time and effort I was able to channel to it.
As they say, what you focus on, expands.
To book a session or to get access to free Tarot guidance, you can follow my Instagram or Facebook page.
Giving back feels good
We can only imagine how difficult 2020 was for those less fortunate than us. And so, in my bid to give something back, I have been donating all proceeds from the sale of my ebook From Stressed to Sorted to feed needy families. This might not be much, but I do believe that every bit counts. As the pandemic continues, I plan on continuing this for a little while longer.
If you wish to do your bit for the society while also beating stress, do support by picking a copy of my ebook here. The book is helping many and I assure you will not be disappointed 🙂
Mental peace is key
Saving the best for the last. For many of us, 2020, with all its challenges and difficulties was about changing repetitive patterns and releasing what no longer serves us. In some way, it propelled us to look within ourselves and to (finally) do the work that was needed. I can confidently look back at the year and say it has been the biggest growth year of my life. From clearing old subconscious blocks, letting go of all people and situations that no longer serve me, claiming back my power and finally reaching a calm and centred mindspace – this year has been one hell of a ride. But when has transformation been easy?
If I could sum up 2020 in one word, it would be “Patience” – all the healing and shadow work you do on yourself will one day bear fruit, if only you have patience and persistence.
By the end of 2020, I am glad to be in a much more calmer and happier place than ever before. More than anything, I am filled with a sense of excitement and certainty – for good things to come. Here’s to an amazing 2021!
On this note, do watch my video to know what the year ahead holds for you:
Don’t forget to like, share and subscribe to my channel here.
Which of the above lessons do you resonate with? What were your biggest takeaways from 2020? Share in the comments below – together, let’s create a Gratitude List 🙂
SoulSpeak with Sonam 