5 Lessons I learned in 2020

 Hey guys!! I just wanted to share with you guys a few things that I have learned over the past year and hopefully it helps or inspires you in some way!

1) Some of the most difficult or unexpected situations in life actually help propel us into our purpose. Although 2020 and the global pandemic has been a difficult one, it was almost like a pause button and was a great opportunity for me to accomplish goals and pursuits that I would have otherwise put off. 

2) Adversity builds resilience. If it's anything this past year has taught me, is how truly strong I am, and I am sure this is true for many of you. 2020 has stretched us all beyond limits that we never knew even existed, and shaped and built our characters. I feel now that no matter how difficult life gets, I am capable of getting through every test.

3) Life is short as is often said, but 2020 has taught me it's shorter. It has taught me that I need to do everything I want to do now, to stop putting off any ambitions or aspirations, because all we have is really NOW! So go after your dreams guys, stop procrastinating, do it while you still can and live with no regrets.

4) It has taught me to be present and live in the present moment. To stop getting so caught up with social media and things that don't add any true value to life. It has taught me to appreciate life, so be present guys, go out and enjoy your own company and that of your loved ones. BE PRESENT.

5) It has taught me the importance of really falling in love with yourself and the pertinence of self care. It all begins with you. Learn to put your needs first, learn to love yourself, take care of yourself and everything else will fall in line. You are indeed your GREATEST asset, always remember this!

Ok guys, so those were my 5 lessons for 2020! Let me also take this time to wish you peace, joy, strength, protection, success, and all the best for 2021 and may you always know how amazing you are! I look forward to providing you with great content in the new year and I anticipate your continued support! If you enjoyed this, please feel free to follow and leave a comment below. Until my next post, stay safe and be blessed! 💙

The Relationship between the current Global Pandemic (COVID-19) and Depression

 Hey guys! This is not of travel or poetry nature, but I wrote this recently and in light of the times we are facing, I just thought it would be great to share. Feel free to leave any comments below, and I hope you enjoy! 💙

Depression is classified as a mental disorder, and more specifically falls under the classification of Disorders of Emotion. Common symptoms include sadness, feelings of helplessness and lacking the desire to do regular activities. With the emergence of the current global pandemic, depression has arisen and negatively impacted the lives of many people across the globe, who are trying to come to terms with "the new normal." Due to the seriousness of this deadly disease, many rules and protocols have been put in place to keep persons safe amidst these unprecedented times and circumstances. Persons have been mandated to social distance, are unable to attend social events and gatherings, or see family and friends in many instances. The important and crucial aspects of life such as social interaction and physical touch  have been abruptly stripped away, forcing people to have to grapple with a very sad new reality. For those, for example, extroverts who thrive on elements such as social interaction, this has been extremely difficult. This new reality has plunged many people across the world into depression and depressive states, many being unable to grasp and cope with these changes. Many countries having had to mandate lockdowns or shutdowns to slow the spread of this disease, and this has left people stuck at home for periods of time that they have never experienced. For some in abusive or just unpleasant home situations, this has led to the rise of this mental disorder. Not being able to go out and do things for fun, meet up with friends for example, has taken a heavy negative impact mentally on many persons. The strain has also been seen on parents, who now have to get used to having their children for extended periods that they are not use to, homeschooling them, which are added pressures. This has also created a stressful environment for children themselves, who are unable to be as active and interact, play or hang out with friends. It has also tested romantic relationships, as well as relationships amongst family members, who have had to be around each other way more often than they usually do. All these factors have lent to the rise in depression in many persons, and is evident as this tragic event rages on. My recommendation would be in the midst of this negative situation and these trying times, that persons experiencing depression try to turn it into a positive. Use this downtime to find something that brings you peace, if you lost your job, use this as an opportunity to hone in on a skill that you may have an create an income for yourself. Try to discover what you truly love, surround yourself with positive things and interact with positive and uplifting people; you may not be able to physically meet but text, call, skype, stay in touch with those who bring you joy. Don't let depression be the end of your story. Know that things will get better and that you can overcome. Most importantly, do not be afraid to ask for or seek help if you need it; find your happy place, whatever that may be for you and know that this too shall pass.