How Have You Changed for the Better?

Happy New Year! We made it friend. Here we are standing in the first week of a brand new year.

The last couple of years have been unique, to say the least, and in every conversation I have there seems to be an eagerness to put another tumultuous year behind. In light of the constant change and uncertainty in the world, you may have faced challenges that pushed you to the very end of your resilience.

But before you jump off into 2022, stop for just a few minutes and reflect with me. I have a question for you.

How have you changed for the better?

As you look back, there has been change, perhaps significant change in your life circumstances, but there also has been change in you. You have learned things, and you have grown.

Let's pause together and look at 7 lessons of the year. These golden nuggets are pieces of wisdom you don't want to miss.

7 Lessons of 2021 

1. You can adapt. The one constant thing in life is change. And, undeniably this year had more constant change and disruption than you have seen before. You are standing here today having adapted, and you have helped others you lead to do the same. 
2. Your relationships matter. The pandemic shut down your ability to be with your team members, family, or friends in the same way. This certainly highlights relationships you may have taken for granted, and just how important the people in your inner circle are. 
3. Your health is critical. There is nothing like a global pandemic to highlight how fragile human life is, and how important it is to take care of your body. You've put a higher focus on your own self-care.
4. You can honor your feelings. When you have felt sad, overwhelmed, or angry there has been a reason. Your emotions are a signal of what you are going through, and you can and should honor them. You realized that it's ok to not be ok. 
5. You are more capable than you think. When you look at what you have come through in this year, see yourself as strong and resilient. This year developed your ability to think outside the box, and ignited your creativity. You have led others forward when you didn't have all the answers. 
6. You can take a break. You've realized you can't do it all. Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is to take time out - to give your body and mind a chance to rest. It's ok to take a break. 
7. You have more clarity. You can identify what's most important. When things are stripped away it becomes easier to see what your highest priorities are. Clarity helps you to focus and take action to achieve your dreams. 

Remember what you have learned in the last year. Then, apply the valuable lessons you have to propel you forward in a positive way.

Let's not leave 2021 without acknowledging the wisdom we have gained and use it to enter this New Year with confidence.

Thanks for allowing me and the team here at Legacy Leader to be a small part of your journey. My hope is that our time together has given you encouragement and inspiration over this year to live a life of intention.

I look forward to welcoming 2022 together, and to helping you continue to learn and grow as a leader.