Now that we have rung in the new school year and said goodbye to 2020-21, I wanted to look back and learn from the many troubles of online and mandatory masked classes. The year was far from perfect, yet it proved the importance of my mental health and resilience in a time of worry and exhaustion. Even when all feels lost and you’ve given up hope, I hope these reminders help get you back on your feet for the new school year.

There are no ideal scenarios 

Last year did not go as expected. It all felt as though life was going downhill. But even when we were forced to stay inside and partake in Zoom calls, our lives were not on pause. They were constantly in motion and evolving even when we felt frozen in time. I had to ask myself, “am I paying attention to the world around me?” While the end of the school year was unlike any other, the year still mattered. I now realize I need to be cognizant of the life unfolding in front of me and take hold of any opportunity that presents itself. 

Cut yourself some slack

During a time of confusion and exhaustion, I had to stop holding myself to an unachievable standard. Not everything was feasible last year and that was okay. Internalizing needless perfection was not manageable during a global pandemic. This was, and still is, a new way of living. Being hard on myself is not beneficial during this process. Continuing to remind myself that authenticity is more important than perfection gives me peace. 

Always show up

No matter the situation, always be present. Whether that means for people or to a class, being ready makes a difference. At some point last year, all of us wanted to stay in bed and not face the reality of the world. But picking yourself up and walking into your first-hour class is important because you and your mind, compassion, creativity, and heart, matter. You can only improve yourself by showing up. 

You are never alone

Wearing a mask all day or staring at a screen for long hours was emotionally and mentally draining. It restricted connection with others which often causes isolation. Humans need relationships with other humans and without that, life can be off-putting and lonely. Now being in-person without a mask mandate, connecting with friends and teachers keeps me grounded. 

Know the things you can control 

At times you might feel you are in a downward spiral. But you should know it’s the small, minuscule things that give meaning to your life. Things you overlook are often the things you can control. Call your best friend, go on a walk, bake a cake, listen to loud music, dance around your room, lay down on the grass and watch the clouds move into shapes. Simple and often silly events most miss help release emotions and endorphins that give you feelings you can only get by living.  

While I would not wish a school year like 2020-21 on anyone, I am thankful that it happened. It wasn’t always pretty but it helped me grow into a better person and appreciate the moments which truly matter in life.