By Sabeeta Bidasie Singh

Nov. 7, 2020 will be remembered for changing the political face of the U.S. The Democratic President Elect Joe Biden declared he will be “President for all Americans” but today also will be documented for a major first in U.S. politics as we have the first female Vice President being elected in the U.S. This is certainly a symbol of hope for diversity and inclusion in the political balance and a big win for women of color all over the world. Harris is a Caribbean Indo/African female and is a significant achievement in the race against discrimination and equality for all. A symbol of “Hope for 2021”.

The pandemic brought tectonic changes to everyone and effected how we live, what we do, how we work, the role of family and broke down a number of traditional social structures. March 2020 was the month to be remembered as the “Month the World Stood Still”. December is the final month of the calendar year and looking back at 2020 there seems to be destruction, loss, death and a general feeling of set back for the world and its population. Reflecting on all that we have been through, I think the one thing coming out of a pandemic riddled year is that of community spirit and collaborations. As we wrap up this year, we all do so by putting the pain and losses of 2020 tucked far away and looking toward the year ahead with one common vision — “Hope for 2021”.

For 2021 it is fundamentally important to ask yourself two important questions: (1) Where do I belong? And (2) What is my purpose? In my mind, the year in front of us has to offer a promise of hope, I believe that in 2021 there will be rebirth. I believe that hope is what helped us survived the pandemic up to this point and create opportunities to come. “Hope” makes us look at the present situation and see it for what it is and plan for something better. While we do not know what 2021 will bring or what the “new normal” will look like, we still must be optimistic that better will come if we believe.

I am going to declare that by Sept. 2021 we are going to feel that we have pushed past the worst of the pandemic and life may start to settle into a “new way”. There will be a gradual improvement in our way of life even though we have to accept that things will never return to the way they were pre-2020. I am hopeful for 2021 because everyday we hear stories on the news of progress towards the understanding of the pandemic and how the virus mutates, people are educating themselves more on how to live their lives in the presence of a pandemic, progress on vaccines, treatment and healthcare.

When I look ahead in hope I think about all the things we have learnt about the virus, so that we assume less and adopt the things we know. The things we know will replace our fears and anxiety with confidence based on knowledge and unrealistic expectations. We have enacted common sense approaches to keeping ourselves protected by social distancing, hygiene and facial protection. We know that avoidance of large gatherings and enclosed spaces as a breathing ground for the virus. People will eventually lead a healthier lifestyle through new knowledge of immunity boosting diets and exercise to reduce obesity related health complications.  The role of scientific discovery will continue to bring options that will boost our confidence that this virus won’t rule our lives indefinitely.

I would like to share some insights into the future on a few of the things I am planning around as 2021 approaches, and with each insight I also share some suggested action steps. I believe if you prepare yourself for 2021 you will find greater success than hoping for an ideal world which no longer exists.

• Uncertainty – We are living in extremely uncertain and tumultuous times so being a control freak now will only create unnecessary stress. While we all make better decisions under conditions of predictability, the one thing you know for certain is that what was normal is gone and we need to all create a new narrative to push forward. To live and thrive during uncertainty calls on a new level of skills to position yourself to lead your life in the middle of uncertainty you must become agile and flexible. To succeed during uncertain times you must be willing to step outside of your comfort zone and make changes.

• Instability – While uncertainty is one thing, it limits you to see far into the future. Instability is a state that is brought on by the present circumstances that can make you unsteady and destroy all that you have taken for granted. One of the best ways to survive during unstable times is to recreate yourself. Look at your current resources and rebuild where there are opportunities. Learn a new skill or develop your networks, but whatever you do “keep moving”.

• Opportunity – You may find your greatest opportunity in the middle of this crisis. Try to be innovative as great innovation is borne out of crisis. Crisis is an accelerator to growth — so look at your lens and shift an obstacle into an opportunity. Keep your chin up.

Here are some great things to do on Jan. 1, 2021:

  - Take a trip with friends across the country and explore new places to enjoy the New Year 2021 celebrations.

•  Doing crazy things and putting these craziest selfies on social media like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and WhatsApp 

•  Watching ‘The Fault In Our stars in the open air in your backyard.

•  Enjoy the snugness of bonfire

• If you are alone don’t forget your favorite coffee and a good book!

• Eat and lick melted chocolate.

• Enjoy dinner outside with your family on the New Year Eve 2021.

• Remember old memories and coming to your hometown.

• Enjoy the time with your grandparents and listen to their stories

• Enjoy a drink with your dad.

• Dress up for a Pajama party with your mom.

• Just Daydream and think about your year ahead - never underestimate the power of manifestation.

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