2021 Plans

What went well this year? What went poorly? How can I use that knowledge in 2021?

Sleeping has been the big win of the year. Started out the year by investing in a king sized hybrid mattress with an adjustable frame. Ahhhh. Great choice. I also worked on getting my breathing improved by using Breathe Right strips and taking sinus meds at bedtime. The final piece of the puzzle was adjusting my alcohol intake. I found a sweet spot that helps me sleep better without disrupting my sleeping midway through the night. I've tinkered and tested and confirmed that it definitely makes a difference. And it's considerably less alcohol than I used to drink, so I've also dropped quite a few pounds in the last few months. Bonus!

I've made a fair amount of progress on my gut health, though that still has a long way to go to be optimal. I'll keep working at it next year.

The single biggest failing was in cardio. I started out with high hopes, but once the lockdown was in place my plan fell apart. I think I have a new doable and sustainable plan for 2021. Fingers crossed.

What's the most important food and nutrition-related thing I need to focus on for 2021?

I'm pleased with what I've been doing these last few months, so I need to keep refining that, and keep tracking. Getting back to eating lots of greens was really important, as was curtailing those late night snacks. I don't think I need to change a whole lot of my nutrition for the coming year.

What one physical activity do you need to focus on most in 2021?

Cardio. I think I have a way to get this done, even when I'm at home for multiple days in a row. Starting slow, but going to build. Hope I can do some sprinting by springtime.

Major or minor physical challenges to deal with? Once COVID is less threatening I have at least two medical procedures I am determined to take care of in 2021.

What brings me Joy? How can I make 2021 the most joyful ever?

As difficult as 2020 has been, I have been really focused on finding those tiny little moments of joy. I still struggle against my inclination to work too much, and too late in the day, but at least I take some time all day long to appreciate the little things that actually do make me happy - a shiny kitchen sink, my birds at the feeder, the twinkle lights in the sunporch, my new flooring in the pantry and the cubbyhole.



Goodbye, 2020! I will not miss you ever!