I Can Do Hard Things

At the end of the year, I was asked to share my reflections on lessons learned in 2020 with wedding industry professionals. As we move into the second full week of this new year, I also wanted to share my thoughts with you.

Reposted from WeddingPRO

I brought in the new year eating delicious food, enjoying adult beverages, and engaged in thoughtful conversation with a dear friend. As the clock struck midnight we celebrated with a toast and declared this the best year ever! Last week we laughed about the fact that we had no idea what was coming in 2020. However, we’ve learned so many valuable lessons through all the unexpected twists and turns this year has taken. One of the biggest lessons that I’ve learned is to protect my peace. This year taught me to acknowledge and accept the chaos around me and keep the serenity within me.
One of the main reasons I decided to start my event management company was because I like being in control. This year, all of my events were cancelled, my assistant quit, and every trip that I had planned was cancelled. I questioned my safety as my hometown made national news for the demonstrations that were taking place in response to the murder of George Floyd and countless other Black Americans at the hands of the very people we pay to protect us. I grieved with loved ones who watched those close to them die of cancer, COVID-19, and gun violence. None of that was in my control.
I navigated the financial disruption, the fear and shame of asking for help, and the creation of new channels in business. I worked through the mental fatigue and physical exhaustion of having countless conversations about racial injustice, implicit bias, and generational trauma.
I managed my way through innumerable pivot points in 2020.
And here I am, still standing, at the end of the year still safe and sane. 
Actually, I’m in a better place mentally and financially than where I started this year.
I begin most days with affirmations that declare “I am, “I can”, and “I will.” I speak the things I know to be true, even when I don’t feel that they are true. Recently, I have begun to repeat “I can do hard things.” As I reflect on all that has happened this year, this is certainly true.
I’m encouraged by the prospect of what’s to come in 2021. And I’m grateful to be able to wrap up the best year ever and carry this lesson with me.