Do you need help choosing goals for 2021? If you’re like many people, it might feel hard to think of new goals for the new year. We’re still learning to adapt to a world with COVID-19, and a lot of people have had to put their careers and lives on hold. 2020 was a heck of a year, and many of us haven’t felt like 2021 has changed yet, either.

It’s true that daily life has changed and is continuing to evolve. Much of the country is still in lockdown, fighting a virus. There is scary unrest throughout the country. You may have a lot of anxiety or sadness surrounding these events. But no matter how you feel, time is moving on. You’re still in recovery, just for today. But making plans may seem a bit more challenging. Goals are an important part of moving forward.

Ideas for Goals in 2021

While you may feel “stuck” at home or challenged in other areas, you can still work on yourself. Having goals in recovery helps you to continue challenging yourself. Working towards goals can help us stay centered. Here are some ideas for choosing your goals this year:

  • Spread random acts of kindness. We’re in a world that can be ugly at times. Being a good person is rewarding, and brightening somebody’s day can brighten your own, making this a great goal.
  • Try a hobby you’ve never tried before. This may mean buying a puzzle off of Amazon or learner tai-chi with a class online. Try a few if you can!
  • Clean out your room. Get rid of clutter or items you don’t wear. (Contact a local mutual aid group to give it to the homeless.) Have a goal to give more to others and cut down on waste.
  • Write a few letters this year to people you love. Letters are a great way to say personal things, and people love to keep them. Write a thank-you note or a letter about a time you enjoyed and wish your loved one had shared with you. This is a great goal to help you deepen your relationships.
  • Hydrate properly! Keeping on top of your health is important, and water is freely available that you may not drink as much as you should. Keep track of your daily consumption and pay attention to how much better you feel. Regular hydration is a simple goal to reach for on a daily basis.
  • Keep a journal. Writing down what you’re working on, how you feel, and what’s going on in the world can help give you a sense of peace and destress.
  • Work on a character defect. While you may not be on your sixth step yet, we all have faults that we want to work on. Maybe you apologize too much or anger too quickly. Find something you want to change about yourself, but be gentle as you explore new coping skills.
  • Check-in with people online more frequently. Do it for them, not you! Ask others how they are doing, say hello, and like a photo on Instagram, let them know you’re present and care.
  • Learn to cook a favorite food. Cooking it once probably won’t be enough – if you cook a meal a dozen times or so throughout the year, you’ll begin to perfect it.
  • Laugh more. We’re in trying times. Watch comedy specials or old slapstick movies. Find a way to share those laughs with others by live-tweeting or watching it and discussing it with friends afterward.
  • Start therapy if you need it. Many people who are considered essential workers have experienced burnout or stress. In the recovery profession, it’s no different. Finding a way to live your life and keep balance sometimes requires outside help.

It’s a new year, but it’s much like last year. We do have a turning point with COVID-19 on the horizon, so while you wait, nurture yourself. Make a few changes that help you feel better about your life. You deserve serenity and hope, too! So give yourself a break and make sure you self-care.

About the San Diego Society of Addiction Professionals

SD-SOAP is a peer group that works to innovate and create a standard of care in the addiction recovery profession. We have free online meetings for people who work in the treatment profession.