It’s that time again.
Before creating a vision and intentions for the year to come, I empty the Good Things Jar. It’s part of a slightly longer ritual I call Marie Kondo-ing my year, where I review the year before moving on - like making the good-bye rounds at a gathering of good friends and then crossing the threshold into a new experience.
Hard to believe there was anything good about 2020? I know, I do not deny nor dismiss the ugly and painful, the grief and uncertainty, the loss and hardship. This ritual helps me remember the unexpected gifts, the moments of grace and the tangible successes because resilience (2021 and beyond) depends on hope and possibility and remembering what was possible even when things are s%&t.
The great thing about the Good Things Jar is that I get to decide what qualifies as ‘good’ (and so do you when you do it).
Good stuff stuffed in there:
Notes about clients’ successes; breakthroughs, steps forward, job gotten, changes made
Stickie notes with acts of kindness to me recorded on them
More stickies, with kind or amazing things I’ve seen the people I love do for others
Cards and messages of gratitude for work well done and encouragement when I needed it (and when I didn't know I needed it)
Scraps of paper with notes about positive happenings in the world or in the news
Actions that make me proud of the people I love, or happy for them because they are happy or proud
Today, I set aside an hour with the jar. I took a moment to read each scrap and let feeling wash over me. Now done, I’m filled up and the jar is empty.
Want to start your own Good Things Jar? Click here.
It’s tempting to run away from 2020 as fast as we can but, we made it and let’s savor that too!
Judy Garfinkel helps you clarify "what's next." Her expertise in building confidence and resilience supports personal growth and the ability to navigate career and work transitions – especially now! She also crafts bespoke resumes, cover letters, LinkedIn profiles, and bios that open doors for her clients and land jobs. Judy is President of the International Coaching Federation - Connecticut Chapter, where she leads near 200 member coaches.