10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1! Happy New Year! While 2020 was a rough year for many people, it’s time to look forward to a new beginning in 2021! 

Although 2020 was coined as the year of “20/20” vision, the tragedies of COVID-19 transformed it into a terrible year for most people.  However, looking back, there were still positive aspects that one could look at to help set a positive mindset for a better future in 2021!

As COVID-19 escalated rapidly in the United States, states began to shut down, schools adjusted to virtual learning, masks were worn, and social distancing was practiced in stores and public places. While the beginning of quarantine was concerning, it could be seen as a positive aspect of the pandemic as many were able to focus on themselves during their stay at home.  Personally, quarantine allowed me to focus on myself and my mental  health; I was able to practice my religion more, and I spent more time with my family.  I was also able to achieve my goals and set new goals for the upcoming year.  From the endless TikTok jokes and memories made during this quarantine, I view it more as a positive experience rather than a negative one.  Keeping this similar mindset for 2021, it is important to find the positives in negative situations.  By focusing on the positives and the good of situations, it allows me to stay grateful for all I have.  

The upcoming year also gives us all a chance to look ahead and make resolutions. A few goals I have for 2021 are to practice more on the keyboard, stop recklessly spending money on clothes, and to stop procrastinating.  Overall, I hope 2021 is a year of change where people are able to focus more on the positive side of situations and to see the good in the world!  In the words of Oprah Winfrey, “Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right!”