Let’s talk about storms.

As we near the end of 2020, we’ve been reflecting on the chaos and struggle of this year. Storms have been raging in 2020, literally (a record-breaking year for natural disasters) and figuratively – a global pandemic that rages on, a nationwide reckoning with deeply rooted systemic racism, the most contentious and litigated election in history, and a country that feels more divided than ever, plus the personal challenges each of us navigates amidst fear and uncertainty.

Most of us have been so busy adapting to massive change, dealing with crises and putting our heads down to survive, we haven’t had a lot of time to reflect. There has been so much pain and trauma in 2020, many people are ready to fast forward to 2021. But, if we don’t create space to reflect on all that’s happened this year, we miss a valuable opportunity to bring more meaning to our lives that can fuel our growth and move us forward into the New Year.

Before you press the fast forward button to 2021, take a few moments to reflect on these questions:

  • What hard things have I done in 2020 that I didn’t know I could do?

  • What am I most proud of this year?

  • What are the most important things I learned about myself in 2020?

  • What lessons will I take with me into 2021?

When we are struggling, sometimes we think that to be strong, we must buckle down, hang on tighter, and hold it all together. Yet, during storms, in hurricane winds, it’s the palm trees that survive. Their flexibility allows them to bend, instead of break. In nature, the strong are durable, soft and pliable.

As we head into 2021 and the storms rage on, we encourage you to think about the following:

  • Where do you need to become softer, more pliable and flexible? Is it an attitude or belief about yourself, someone else, or a group of people?

  • What can you do to support yourself, so you can bend, instead of break? How can you be a healthier human in 2021?

Storms are powerful phenomena. They destroy the order and regularity of our world and lives. They destroy the old. And, in doing so, they pave a new path forward, bringing change, growth and possibility. 

May you stay safe and healthy and find many joyous moments to celebrate this holiday season!

See you in the DoP,

“When you come out of the storm, you won’t be the same person who walked in. That’s what this storm’s all about.” – Haruki Murakami

P.S. If you need support in being a healthier human being in 2021, we created the I2L Peak Performance Challenge for you! This 20-day power program will help you overcome burnout and overwhelm, expand your positive energy and sharpen your focus. We also invite you to check out our new Intend2Lead Learning Lab and discover other programs that will help you level up your leadership in 2021!