Let's make 2021 better than 2020

For many people, 2020 has been one of the worst years they can remember. The COVID -19 pandemic and social unrest have changed our lives in ways we would not have believed possible a year ago. And when January 2021 comes around, we're still likely to be facing many challenges. Can 2021 be a better year?

To support your emotions in stressful times, Bach flowers can help with a range of problems including insomnia, anxiety and panic attacks. There's no point in worrying about things you can't control, but there are plenty of simple changes you can make so that 2021 is a better year for you. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Be more assertive and learn how to say "no"

Being assertive with family, friends and colleagues is one of the bravest things you can do. Setting boundaries might result in people becoming upset with you, but people who love you and are loyal friends or colleagues will respect the limits you set. Some of the things you might consider saying no to include:

• Being spoken to in a disrespectful or unkind way
• Being expected to do things without being given enough time
• Doing things that you consider unhealthy, or which undermine your self-esteem.
• Competing with your peers for the best car, clothes or house
• Not staying silent when you are unfairly criticised

2. Write down your resolutions

Many of us make New Year's resolutions with the best of intentions, but by the end of January, they're often forgotten. If you write down the goals you hope to achieve, you're much more likely to persevere with them. And tell other people about them! We are social beings and require the good opinion of others, so if other people know about your resolutions, you're more likely to achieve them.

3. Do good deeds

Try to do something nice for someone at least once every month. While you probably already do lots of things to help others anyway, make a point of doing something extra now and then. It doesn't have to be expensive or a grand gesture - it can be anything from babysitting for a friend, doing some shopping or gardening for an elderly neighbour, or making a donation to a local charity. Doing something nice for someone else not only helps the recipient but also boosts your self-esteem and lifts your spirits.

4. Treat yourself

At the same time, look after yourself by treating yourself every month to something you want. Again, it doesn't matter what it is: a trip to a beauty spot, a new novel, a spa day or some delicious chocolates. Treating yourself is very important. It energises you and boosts your self-confidence. You'll also feel more cared for and contented so stop feeling guilty about "giving in". Treating yourself could be the first step towards a better year!

5. Get moving

We all know that exercise is good for us, so try to move around a bit more. You don't have to start training for a half marathon: get up from your desk at lunchtime and go for a stroll around the block, or go for a cycle ride or walk in the evening. It's not just about the exercise; it's about being outside, enjoying a change of scenery and a break in your routine.

6. Sleep well

Sleep is one of our most basic needs, and if you aren't getting enough good quality sleep, your health and wellbeing will be affected.

If you aren't sleeping as well as you'd like, try the following tips for good sleep hygiene:

• Stick to the same times for sleeping and waking, even at the weekend.
• Make sure your bedroom is dark by using blackout curtains if necessary.
• Keep your bedroom at a comfortable temperature - ideally between 15 - 18 degrees.
• Background noise such as soft music or a recording of rain falling blocks out noises that might disturb your sleep, such as traffic, or early birdsong in summer.
• Switch off your screens an hour or two before bedtime. The blue light emitted by our electronic devices disrupts the release of melatonin, the hormone produced in the brain that makes you feel sleepy.
• If you can't sleep because you're worried and fearful, Bach Flower Mix 87 can help you feel calm for a peaceful night's slumber.

7. Don't get stuck in a rut

Do you feel as if you've reached a dead end with your job or hobbies? As you move through life, you sometimes outgrow things that you used to enjoy. Take a look at how you spend your time and try to reduce any activities that bore you or drag you down. As the old saying has it, life isn't a rehearsal! If you're no longer getting a buzz from a sport or hobby, it's time to pare it back and try something new.

Sources:

https://www.mindforlife.org/nice-persons-guide-becoming-assertive/

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/doing-good-does-you-good/health-benefits-altruim

https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/sleep/

Other articles

10 Tips to get the best out of every day

When we’re stuck in a bit of a rut, the days and nights slip past so quickly that we barely notice them. But life is not a rehearsal!

Is the world as we know it over?

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, governments around the world have taken unprecedented measures to stop the spread of coronavirus. The rapid changes we've seen have had an impact on almost every aspect of our lives.

Signs you're slipping into a burn-out

Learn how to recognise the signs of stress and avoid slipping into a burnout or a bore-out

Are you resilient enough? Take our quiz!

Do you have enough resilience to face the world out there? Take our quiz to find out how resilient you are and find tips on how to build your mental resilience.

7 tips to help your dog with a fear of fireworks

As nice as it is for a person to celebrate New Year, it's not so nice for a dog, especially when the loud fireworks go off the whole night. This is really frightening for many dogs. Read our 7 tips on how you can help your dog with his fear of fireworks.

How to stop everything going wrong

Do you always feel that everything’s always going wrong? Find out how to stop this cycle of bad thoughts in its tracks. When you think positively, things will start to appear positive and you will eventually feel more positive and optimistic.

Find out if you're suffering from imposter syndrome

Do you sometimes feel your achievements are not the result of your hard work and skill but are just luck? And do you fear that one day, someone will reveal you as an imposter or fraud? You might have imposter syndrome!

Stop worrying and live in the moment

People spend so much of their time regretting the past and worrying about the future. But it’s not worth it! Even what happened yesterday doesn't matter anymore! Let go of the past and the future and make the most of every moment.

Fact or fiction? Is it truly healthy?

There's so much contradictory health advice out there, it gets confusing. One year, butter is said to be bad for you, and margarine is better. The following year, it's the other way around. One article says running causes strain on your joints; another says it's good for you because it increases bone strength.

Simple tips to not be afraid of the future

No one knows what the future holds, so don't waste time and energy worrying about it. Read our tips and find out how to stop being afraid of what might never happen.