I wish I could brag about learning a foreign language or how to color my own hair. That didn’t happen. I also didn’t lose weight, amp up my exercise routine, or solve a 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle  Nevertheless, I experienced many good things this year.  I managed to adapt my business, and I believe I’ve helped my clients. I’ve been diligent about posting my weekly blog for yet another year, and I got to watch both my Lakers and my Dodgers win championships.

Along the way, amazingly, I’ve discovered that you CAN teach an old dog new tricks. So here are 10 of mine:

Lesson 1:  I’ve learned the value of my personal connections.  Checking in with friends and family, usually by text, made me feel as good as I’ve felt when others checked in with me.

Lesson 2:  I’ve been pleasantly surprised at my own ability to adapt.  Going to one grocery store once a week instead of three different grocery stores, sometimes all in one day, has become my new normal.

Lesson 3:  And speaking of “new normal,” I’ve learned to laugh at all of the euphemisms being used.  In fact, I invented a drinking game for myself.  Every time I hear someone use one of those expressions, I pretend to drink a shot..  

Lesson 4:  People are not mind-readers.  I’ve learned to ask for what I need, and then accept the result.

Lesson 5:    Having the basics, like food, shelter, water, and a paycheck, are appreciated like never before.

Lesson 6:  Leftovers aren’t awful.  I realize now that I’ve been a food snob for my entire adult life, turning up my nose at eating the same thing for dinner two nights in a row.  This year, however, I discovered Costco’s rotisserie chicken.  I ate that sucker four nights straight!  (Okay, I admit, I repurposed it . . .)

Lesson 7:  Priorities can be adjusted and so can realities.  For the most part, I don’t think anybody wants to be told what we can or cannot do  That being said, sometimes we have to do something we don’t want to do, for the greater good.  

Lesson 8:  Staying in my own lane.  Although not terribly judgmental by nature, I’ve applied that characteristic to the way others handle the pandemic.  (Confession:  I did judge the guy in my neighborhood who was trying to sell the 23,000 rolls of toilet paper he hoarded.)

Lesson 9:  I’ve broadened the previously narrow scope of my television watching, and have been both entertained and inspired by the quality of programming out there.  

Lesson 10:  Although this isn’t exactly a revelation for me, I’m focusing on the little things that matter.  The comforts of my home, the calls and texts from my family and friends, laughter, even writing my blogs every week.  

If you’re wondering when I’m going to mention gratitude, I’m not.  I learned that lesson long before 2020.

Thank you for reading this.  I wish you  good health and joy in the new year