A Letter to Myself as the World Reopens

Photo by Kate Macate on Unsplash

Dear You,

The world is healing. You’ve heard that word time and time again as people start venturing outside. Families and friends are reuniting, people are traveling, morning commutes are happening (and not the types that involve rolling out of bed to open your laptop).

Life is returning to normal and it’s exciting. One day, this unique shared experience will be a mere memory that we look back on and think ‘did that really happen?’. While this last year was tough for you, there are aspects I don’t want you to forget as you push forward.

Remember how good it feels to prioritize yourself. Life slowed down last year and fitness, diet, mental health, and self-care became #1. Right now it feels like you’re in hyperspeed as people make up for lost time, but it’s okay to say no or choose to slow down if you need to.

Alone time is important but so is connection. Everyone was so busy before the shutdown, but we rediscovered the art of conversation during it. While your calendar is filling up again, I don’t want you to lose sight of the connections you strengthened with loved ones during those “unprecedented times.” Continue making quality time for one another.

Keep saving. It was easy to be smart about money during a year with nothing to do and nowhere to go. Treat yourself but know you don’t have to return to drinks and brunch every weekend if you don’t want to. It’s okay to be selective about spending money so you can continue strengthening your financial foundation.

Balance still matters. Continue working hard but don’t make work your entire life. You dedicated time to hobbies and passions beyond your career. Don’t let the increased hustle and bustle keep you from still exploring them. Don’t get lost at your desk to the point you miss out on all the joys of life you rediscovered.

There are a ton of wonderful and joyful experiences headed your way but remember how you’ve changed. You’re not the same person you were before this experience and that is perfectly okay. Be patient and kind with yourself. The world may be healing — but so are you.