2020 is still a visionary year, just not the one we thought we were going to have.  We are learning to live with uncertainty, we are exercising our ability to adapt and above all, we are being given many opportunities to flex our compassion muscles.

As we enter July, with a bit of relief because outdoor summer activities feel slightly more normal, perhaps we can reflect on the first half of this year and find strength for the next half.

What have you learned? Change, challenges and even devastation teach us something. If we had full control, we may choose our exact old normal, but we don’t have that option so what can we take away from this year? Let’s not leave empty handed after experiencing or witnessing such suffering.

What will you let go of? If the answer to this question doesn’t come right to mind, perhaps think of what you no longer have time or energy for. What is draining you? Sustainability is key in unprecedented times. Examine what you are resisting and question the resistance. What are you holding onto that is holding onto you?

How will you change?  The only wrong answer here may be “not gonna”,  as change is essential for survival. While there are some things that stay the same such as your values, there are many circumstances that cause us to change. Change is beneficial even when it is hard.

How can you live with uncertainty? Hint: You were already living with uncertainty, you just thought you had certainty in certain things. We can enjoy what is to be enjoyed without dwelling in the past or anticipating the future. Make sure you stay mindful this summer, present with the activities and people you love.

…and that leads to the most important concept of all…

Who do you love? Why do you love? What is love? How do you express love? When will you show love?  When in doubt, when everything gets scrambled and you aren’t sure what to do next or where to go, take a moment and just love. Start with love for you. Show yourself compassion. You are not alone even if you feel like you are. You are not lost when you feel lost. You are not unlovable when you feel unlovable. Love always finds a way.

We have so much to gain this year, personally and collectively. I send you love for the hard times, the slow times, the overwhelming times, and confusing times ahead this year. You will persevere and come out stronger, never forgetting 2020.

Kim Perone is a Success, Bereavement, and Resilience Coach and Mindfulness Trainer at Center4C (The Center for Clarity, Compassion & Contentment) offering 1:1 coaching, workshops, programs, retreats, workplace training and resources to support you on your life’s journey. Kim is the author of Finding Your Center: The Case For Clarity, Compassion, and Contentment available at www.center4c.com and Amazon. For more information about cultivating clarity, compassion, and contentment in your life, contact Kim at [email protected] or (518) 301-359 or visit www.Center4C.com.