If you’re reading this, then congratulations because you survived 2020! 

Between the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, a powerful civil rights movement, raging wildfires, a crazy election, and everything else that took place over the past year, I’m reminded of a certain character trait that is important, not only for day-to-day life, but especially for those in recovery. 

Recovery is full of surprises and setbacks, it’s inevitable, but it’s how you come back from those obstacles that defines you and when you do overcome whatever is thrown your way, that’s called resilience. 

You don’t have to be a superhero to be resilient, it’s about coming back from the little and the big things, so If you survived 2020, then you are resilient and we need to keep that energy going for 2021, because by the looks of it, things aren’t settling down anytime soon. So here’s 5 ways to stay resilient in 2021:

Commit to yourself. It’s all about the mindset, you don’t need to sit down and write out all of your goals, just having that firm belief in yourself that you can, and will, conquer anything that stands in the way of your goals. If this seems difficult to you, try positive affirmations and/or manifesting how you want your life to be through a vision board. 

Set SMART goals. Did you know that there is a specific formula for writing effective goals? They’re called SMART goals, SMART stands for: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely. If you do decide to write out your goals, try incorporating these elements so you can set yourself up for success because just saying ‘I want to lose a lot of weight’ is harder to follow through with than a SMART goal.

Stay engaged. Staying engaged is important to staying resilient because you have to set time aside to enjoy the things that you love doing so you feel refreshed and motivated to take on whatever. If you feel like you’re starting to isolate or disengage try reading a book, watching a good show, community service, working out, playing your favorite sport, getting outdoors, talking to family and friends, going to a meeting, or whatever activity you like doing that makes you happy. 

Check in on your friends. 2020 was a tough year for everyone, check in on your friends and family and make sure they are doing okay. There is a stigma against mental health and it’s something that people are ashamed to talk about. Sometimes having these conversations can be tough, but they’re important because we are all in this together and we need more people in the world who offer support in times of need. Everyone loves having someone they can go to for support, if you don’t have one, then be that person for the loved ones in your life. 

Reward + be kind to yourself. Pat yourself on the back because being resilient is a lot of hard work and after all of that, you deserve a reward. It doesn’t have to be big, but make sure to set time aside specifically for rewarding yourself for everything that you do for yourself and others. Try a spa day, a nice dinner, a shopping spree, or maybe a walk on the beach or indulging your favorite treat because you deserve it! And remember, no one does everything perfectly. If you slip up, backslide, or don’t reach a goal - take a look and see what prevented you from making it. Allow yourself a mistake… it’s all how you learn from it.

Remember that if you survived 2020, then you can definitely make it in 2021! Let’s keep the good energy rolling and I look forward to seeing what this year has in store for us. If you, or a loved, are struggling with addiction or mental health please don’t hesitate to reach out text or call (855) 924-1911 or visit www.KSrehab.com