I am sure each of us thought we would be through the pandemic by now. Unfortunately, that is not the case. For many of us, these past 21 months have been a wake-up call -- an opportunity to redefine our values…see what is important and what matters less…to stop procrastinating and start working on our dream projects using our extra stay-at-home time.
I was thinking, not in a “New Year’s resolution” kind of way, but more in general, about things we can all do in the year ahead. Some of these seem obvious, too Jewish, possibly silly, or just different. I am sure you can add your own personal thoughts to this list (feel free to share those ideas with me by simply replying). My one message – go out and do the things you want to do.
Here is my list of 22 Things To Do in 2022:
- Make sure you and your eligible loved ones are vaccinated and boosted. Flu shots are important this year, too, even if you do not normally get one. We can do our part to help our overtaxed healthcare system and workers and vulnerable loved ones.
- Have coffee or a meal with someone who you disagree with politically and listen.
- Luxuriate by making time for yourself. Maybe even do nothing -- guilt free. Relax, take it slow, sleep-in, do things that bring you joy.
- Be a philanthropist by donating to Jewish causes and general causes.
- Review your personal legal papers. Make the time to prepare your home emergency kit.
- Pay it forward. Buy someone in line behind you a cup of coffee or help with their grocery bill.
- Meet your neighbors. Most people today do not know the people living next door to them. (We just replaced the backyard fence we share with our neighbor and after living next to them for 11 years I realized I never knew their last name.)
- Learn a new hobby or skill. In addition, rediscover a past passion and try it again.
- Exercise! Make sure you are incorporating at least 20 minutes of exercise every single day. It makes a difference.
- Visit a new place (locally or far away). My daughter is home for winter break and she wants us to visit all the local sites where the movie Twilight was filmed.
- Go outside and play in the rain. We get plenty of it. Most of the time we avoid it. Do not worry – you will not melt.
- Read Jewish-themed books. The Jewish Book Council is a resource for the best in Jewish literature.
- Play or watch a new sport. Also, play a new or old board game. It is amazing all the board games that have been created.
- Contact someone (former teacher, colleague, etc.) who has made a difference in your life letting them know how much they mean to you. It will be appreciated.
- Volunteer your time with at least one Jewish organization. Here are some ideas.
- Learn about your family history. Most of us cannot name our eight great-grandparents. Take the time to learn about your family tree, record memories, scan photos, copy recipes, and share that information with future generations.
- Create less waste. Reduce...Reuse...Recycle.
- Hold a garage sale. It is amazing how much you are able to sell, which means getting rid of items you no longer need. Plus, you will make some money (maybe donate it?). One interesting thing is just how social garage sales can be. You may meet more of your neighbors in one day than you have in all the time you have lived in your home. Also, you will quickly realize everything you are selling has a story to share.
- Make meals for the entire week. Cooking every day takes a tremendous amount of time. Do it in one day and see how relaxing your evenings can be. Plus, no one has to decide what to make that night.
- Create a TikTok video. Have some fun! Your family and friends will love it. Who knows, you may become an internet sensation?
And here is one to “grow on.” Work on your mental health – 2021 was a challenging year for all of us. We have gathered some resources to support you in your wellness.
Now, to close out my 2021, I will take my own advice and luxuriate (guilt-free) and binge-watch the entire new season of Cobra Kai coming out tomorrow on Netflix! Thank goodness our office is closed.
Warmest wishes to you, your family, and our entire community for a healthy, happy and prosperous new year.
Shabbat shalom.
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