Life can be uncertain.
Everything can change overnight.
If 2020 has taught us anything, it's that we need to learn to embrace disruption.
Thankfully, things are looking up.
The holidays are fast approaching and a vaccine rollout is on the horizon.
So what should we expect in 2021?
I don't know about you but I enjoy this time of year.
You can reflect on the year you've had and take your learnings with you into the next.
With 2020 being unlike any other, we're all changed forever.
Everyone has learned to value their time, take better care of themselves and talk more openly about issues like mental health.
And with the world still very much in a state of uncertainty, it's only expected these will remain important topics of conversation.
So what can you do to ensure you're prepared, emotionally and mentally, for the next year?
Here are my top 5 resources:
1. The Lighthouse Arabia Changemaker webinars
The Lighthouse Arabia is a wellness centre in Dubai.
They provide quality psychological and psychiatric care to children, adults, couples and families.
This year, they were a life-changing support to many within the UAE through their webinars, talks and online support.
You'll find some of their webinars on our website, all created to help you deal with stress, cope with anxiety and remain resilient in uncertain times.
2. World Health Organization's guide to 'Doing what matters in times of stress'
WHO has been at the forefront of the pandemic, providing instant updates on COVID-19 and highly informative content to help spread awareness.
With the strain on mental health this year, WHO has supported those in need and helped to remove the stigma surrounding mental health.
Here's one of my favourite guides from them, with practical tips on how to deal with anxiety.
3. Feel Better Live More podcast from Dr. Rangan Chatterjee
Dr. Rangan Chatterjee is a British physician, author and podcaster.
His podcast includes tips from leading health experts and personalities on how to revolutionise everything from how you eat, sleep, move and relax.
In this episode, he's pulled together the best clips on mindfulness from his previous conversations with experts.
It's an inspiring session so give it a listen.
4. Dr. Christine Carter's 7 strategies for helping you live with uncertainty
Dr. Carter is an author, speaker and coach who helps people lead their most courageous and meaningful lives.
I found this article of hers particularly eye-opening as it provides an honest account of what it's like to live with uncertainty.
And the steps you can take to cope with it.
The key message from her is don't just wait for the world to recover, you need to take action today.
5. Harvard Business Review
HBR is one of the world's leading business resources.
Their website contains valuable information including themes covering stress and uncertainty.
It's a brilliant resource for business owners and HR managers looking to improve their employees' well-being.
Register to follow the topics you're interested in and they'll create personalised feeds based on your choices.
I'd recommend following 'Managing Uncertainty', 'Managing Yourself' and 'Stress'.
“Uncertainty is the only certainty there is, knowing how to live with insecurity is the only security.”
– John Allen Paulos
As the year draws to a close, I want to wish you all the best.
Find ways to be happy and have enriching experiences.
That could be reading a book, going for a walk or watching your favourite series.
Take time to look after yourself and your health.
See you next year, more refreshed, revitalised and ready to conquer.
