A New Year with New Tips and Tricks — GVSU PRSSA – Grand Valley State University Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America

I’m sure I’m not the only one who feels the pressure of the new year. Considering the past 12 months we’ve all endured, there seems to be an impending amount of demand to make 2021 the best year yet. On the other hand, a new calendar year feels fresh with limitless possibilities. The secret to making the current year of 2021 the best is to look at it with a combination of both viewpoints. Perhaps understanding that 2021 is only a number yet having substantial hope is the remedy.

Make Realistic Expectations

Let’s not put all of our eggs in one basket. The past year has been a tough hurdle to jump for most people and not everyone will have the capability to catch up on everything they’ve missed. We are still in a global pandemic and although the year is fresh we have to understand that our lives cannot change overnight. What we can do is set attainable goals for work and school. Make it a priority to attend every class this semester or practice self-care instead of constant work and emails. These small changes can be what makes your 2021 all the more fulfilling.

Stay Motivated

For me, the start of the new year puts a pep in my step. I feel joy finding a cute new planner and love the challenge of writing the new year numbers at the end of dates. Once classes are in full swing and the magic of the season has dissipated, I realize that the motivation has gone and the new year seems to mean nothing. This all-or-nothing mentality only adds to burnout. Where is that spark from New Year’s Eve? The confetti and cheers should be carried out from the Times Square Ball Drop into day-to-day lives. Do something joyful every day and look forward to the little things. It’s what keeps that motivation and dedication to the new year alive.

While the start of the new year isn’t always smooth or easy, these brief tips and tricks can make it a tad bit easier. Accept that 2021 will be (and currently is) far from perfect, but you have the capability to keep the magic of newness with you throughout the year. With this, I send you out into 2021 with hopes of normalcy. Create the fulfilling energy that you deserve and be prepared for slumps that will inevitably come your way. It’s up to us to make 2021 the year that 2020 couldn’t be.

About Emma:

Emma is a junior studying Advertising/Public Relations and Writing. She is currently serving on the PRSSA executive board as Podcast Director. This year is her first year involved with PRSSA and GrandPR where she will serve as an account associate. Obsessed with pop culture, Emma hopes to work in Entertainment PR. In her free time, Emma enjoys watching movies, listening to music, and spending time with her dogs, Lola & Clementine.