It’s near the end of 2020 as I write this blog post. I’m leaning toward saying “good riddance” to 2020 and yet, I’ve really tried to practice both living in the moment and not wishing any time away. Time is a gift and a commodity. As I get older, I try not to take it for granted. 2020 has challenged my “be in the moment” practice to its very core. I’m also a “glass half full” “all is well” type of person. 2020 has kicked my butt in those areas as well. I’ve had some dark moments in 2020. I’ve worked hard to not slide down that unhappy doom loop.

2020 was also filled with joyful moments and “extra” time with two of my kids that I never would have gotten had we not had a pandemic. I’ve never spent this much consecutive time with my young adult children, or even at home for that matter. Prior to this pandemic, I traveled for work and pleasure almost 50% of my time. I loved doing that. My life looks so different right now and I’m struggling to picture what it will look like in a year.

Who would have guessed that we could find true connection, kindness, energy, and love through a computer screen in a Zoom group? Some of my most meaningful moments in 2020 came from leading others through their journey of becoming professional coaches. It’s hard to put into words how these incredible people changed my sometimes-doubting view of humanity. They showed up with all of their hopes, fears, and dreams in hand. I was the beneficiary of their diversity, brilliance, and truly lovely nature.

2020 also brought me the most wonderful coaching clients. The work I do is so meaningful to me in that it is such a privilege to be able to have the types of conversations and relationships that I have with my clients. They are each so unique, so brilliant, and so inspirational that I’m often overwhelmed with joy that I get to be a small part of each of their journeys. The pandemic and its side effects only reinforced that we all need each other and that unconditional listening and support is a powerful mental wellness vaccine.

In 2020, I periodically lost hope for my country and fellow Americans. At the same time, I witnessed true heroism from our frontline workers, healthcare professionals, and our incredible teachers. That so many of them were the recipients of cruelty, name calling, and harassment added to my lack of faith in our country and our future. It was a year when I chose to be more discerning about the people I wanted to spend time with and those that I didn’t. Racism, bullying, and refusal to acknowledge the hazards of a pandemic made me realize that I get to choose how and with whom I spend my precious time.

So I guess I say both good riddance and thank you, 2020. You certainly challenged me in a way that I never saw coming. You’ve made me more grateful than I have ever been, and also a bit more wary than I’ve ever been. Maybe I needed you, even if I didn’t want you.

2021, we’ve gotten off to a bit of a rocky start, but can I still request a bit of a simpler, quieter year? Would that be too much to ask after the wild ride of 2020?

Love,

Lisa Kaplin Psy. D. PCC