As this year has shown us, there are many things in life we cannot anticipate. This year, plans were put on hold and we had to make unexpected changes to our daily routines. However, that shouldn’t stop us from making the most of our last few weeks of the year and preparing as best we can for the year ahead.
To help make the most of this time, we’ve put together a list of ideas on how we can prepare for the months ahead.
Give yourself space to grieve. This year was difficult and uncomfortable for many. Just as we must give ourselves space to heal after a loss, we must show ourselves kindness in grieving the losses we have felt this year. Don’t be hard on yourself if you didn’t find time to start your novel or clean out the basement!
Make a list of things you are grateful for this year. Did you pick up a new hobby? Find creative ways to give back to your community? Perhaps you went on a weekly walk that brought you joy. Think back on what went well this year and make a note to continue to invest time and energy into activities that bring you happiness!
Make a holiday check list. Are there holiday and end of year traditions that bring you joy? Familiar activities can make the holidays feel special. Carve out time to bake and decorate holiday cookies with your family, watch a favorite film, or even drive around to admire holiday decorations in your neighborhood. Make a list of a few things that you would like to do before the year’s end and get to work!
Find creative ways to celebrate the holidays. If you are not able to see family and friends, consider other ways you can show your love. You can spend an afternoon baking treats and drop them off to your loved ones from a distance. You can send thank you notes to people in your life that have made this year a bit easier. Celebrate with new and old traditions we can still take part in this year, rather than focusing on what we aren’t able to do.
Create a list of things you would like to focus on in the year ahead. Would you like to read more? Perhaps you would like to call your friends weekly or give back to your community. Make a list of things you hope to accomplish in the year ahead to help narrow down what is important to you.
Create an activity jar for the coming year. Are there certain activities you would like to do more of next year? Make a list of your favorite activities and put them in a jar. It can be as simple as listening to your favorite album or having a sunset picnic. When you’re having a hard day and need to cheer yourself up, pick an activity from the jar. Crafting is an easy way to pass time and surprise your future self with activities you are sure to enjoy.
Planning Ahead If you are considering planning ahead, you may be wondering how you can get started. It’s easy. Find a local funeral home near you and schedule an appointment. Many funeral homes will allow you to learn about their preplanning options over the phone or via video chat free of charge.
If you’re interested in planning with a ShareLife provider, please give us a call at (407) 710-6775 and we can help you get started with the process. And, if you are a first responder interested in funeral planning, call a local ShareLife provider to learn about our discounted packages to thank you for your service.