Reboot in 2022

By. Sandy Malone

This year has indeed been a year fought with so many challenges.. On a global scale, while still reeling from the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic there is now the Omicron Variant. This variant at the time of this publication is expected to see cases spike drastically in the next few months in the US and global markets like never before; and with no end in sight!

​Indeed, adjusting to this “new normal” has definitely had an impact on how individuals today are forced to operate inside of schools, places of worship, and in other organizations and businesses—businesses which are also forced to operate.

​However, with all that being said, it is more important than ever before that YOU take time away from all of the distractions to jumpstart your action plan NOW for 2022 in the following areas listed below:

Finances $$$:
Money is a major source of stress for many Americans today. A study by Pew Research revealed that half of the surveyed non-retired adults stated that the pandemic will make it even more difficult for them to reach their financial goals. Sadly, statistics reveal that in 2019, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2019 national Black poverty rate was more than double the white poverty rate in the U.S. Needless to say, when White people catch a cold, Black people catch pneumonia! Examine the amount of money coming into your household and what your expenses are. Look at ways you can cut or eliminate your expenses.

​Here are just a few questions to help get you started on the right track:

• Do you have a savings as well as a checking account?
• Do you check them regularly to make sure the information being provided is accurate? Consider creating a savings goal this year.
• Do you have credit cards? You may want to consider using a debit card/and or cash when making major purchases. Also, do your research when changing jobs and/or getting a second part-time job also known as a side hustle.
• Do you know your credit score? Monitor your credit score at least once a month and at a minimum once a year.

HEALTH:
If you haven’t heard it already, “Your health is your wealth.” So many health issues are impacting women overall, especially women of color. As a result, it is important that we all take time this year to set goals for our health and wellness. Here are a few things to consider when examining your health and wellness.

• Get annual physical check-ups
• Get annual mammograms
• Make sure you are getting adequate rest
• Be sure to drink an average of 64 ounces of water daily.
• Be sure to get some type of moderate aerobic activity for 30 minutes, 5 days a week

Mental Health and Wellness
A brisk walk during your lunch break or 2-3 times per week when you get home is a great way to unwind from a busy work day, and transition to focusing on your duties on the homefront. Remember, exercise does not only benefit you physically, but it also helps your state of mind!

Spiritual Wellness
The pandemic has shed light on how important mental health is to our total wellness. The unusual amount of isolation individuals impacted by COVID-19 have had to endure has certainly had a negative impact on mental health. Sadly, the rate of suicides and depression have also increased as a result of this prolonged period of isolation and quarantine. Your spiritual wellness is important. It is an important part of who you are. It is the true essence of who you are as an individual and is an intrinsic part of your core values. Make sure to include this aspect of wellness in your health and wellness plans as you create your overall goals for 2022 to TRULY BE WELL!

Wishing you and your family a safe and joyous 2022!!!