Happines & Postive Mindset
8 Factors of Happiness
This image created by Duke University popped up on my Facebook memories from one year ago. Who knew in December 2019 that 2020 would unfold the way it did?
This image really speaks to me. It highlights the 8 Factors of Happiness and creating a positive mindset, including not living in the past, not wasting time and energy fighting things you cannot change, and not expecting too much from yourself. What great things to keep in mind as we head into the holiday season and prepare for the unknown of 2021.
Achieving happiness
I’ve spent a lot of time in 2020 working to be kind to myself, to be happy, satisfied, and positive in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. It’s been difficult to watch the news and not feel anxious or sometimes depressed at the headlines of the day.
But what I’ve also worked on is remembering that we can’t control the circumstances around us. Control is just an illusion. There are things that happen to all of us, and we can’t make it through life without some sorrow, misfortune and challenge. What we can focus on is our reaction to these challenges. Our thoughts and beliefs. Each of us can work to achieve happiness.
Will 2021 be a better year than 2020? Yes, I think it will. Will we get to spend more face to face time with our friends and loved ones? Yes, I think we will. Are we finding effective treatments and vaccines so that the threat from Covid decreases? Yes, we are. Have our nonprofit organizations pivoted effectively and still been able to raise money in the midst of this challenging year? Yes, they have. Have we learned or enhanced some new skills and talents, whether its baking bread or learning Zoom? Yes, we have.
As we close out 2020, are you choosing to be happy, or choosing to focus on your challenges and problems?
Feeling positive
I feel good about what I’ve accomplished in 2020. I’ve had great fundraising clients to work with, like An Achievable Dream and Ohef Sholom Temple, and people that I’ve enjoyed spending time with, whether face to face or via Zoom. I have a lot to be thankful for.
I feel positive about 2021. I’m proud of our local Hampton Roads nonprofits. They’ve worked hard to adapt and excel this year, and many of them have raised significant money. Donors have responded generously, and volunteers have stepped forward in new ways and for new projects and causes. I look forward to 2021 with hope.
I hope you have time over the next few weeks to be with people you love, whether that’s virtually or in person. And I hope you can take time to give thanks for your blessings and spend time doing something that lifts your spirits and soothes your soul.
There is a lot ahead of us, and a lot of work to be done in 2021. I’m looking forward to the challenge, and I hope you are too.
Warmest wishes for a joyous and blessed holiday season, and happiness in 2021.
Allison
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